Talcum powder litigation has surged across the United States, with tens of thousands of lawsuits filed against manufacturers like Johnson & Johnson, Colgate-Palmolive, and Imerys Talc America. Plaintiffs allege that long-term use of talc-based products—especially those contaminated with asbestos—led to serious illnesses such as ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, and meningioma. While cases have been filed in all 50 states, certain regions have emerged as legal hotspots due to high filing volumes, favorable court rulings, and strategic advantages for plaintiffs.
This article explores where talcum powder cases are most commonly filed in the U.S., why certain jurisdictions attract more litigation, and what victims should consider when choosing where to file.
National Overview: MDL No. 2738
The majority of federal talcum powder lawsuits are consolidated in Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) No. 2738, located in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. As of July 2025, the MDL includes over 63,000 active cases, making it the largest mass tort proceeding in the country2.
MDL No. 2738 centralizes pretrial proceedings for claims involving:
- Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower
- Allegations of asbestos contamination
- Ovarian cancer and mesothelioma diagnoses
While the MDL streamlines discovery and expert testimony, plaintiffs retain the right to pursue individual trials or settlements.
Top States for Talcum Powder Litigation
1. California
California has seen thousands of talc-related filings, especially in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Alameda County. The state’s strong consumer protection laws and history of large verdicts make it a preferred venue.
- $417 million verdict in Los Angeles (2017)
- $26.5 million mesothelioma verdict in San Jose (2023)
- $18.8 million verdict in Alameda County (2023)
California courts are known for allowing punitive damages and for juries sympathetic to consumer safety claims3.
2. Missouri
Missouri—particularly St. Louis—has been a major battleground for ovarian cancer claims.
- $4.69 billion verdict awarded to 22 women (2018)
- Multiple seven-figure verdicts between 2016 and 2017
Missouri’s procedural rules and jury composition have historically favored plaintiffs, though recent reforms have made filings more challenging4.
3. New Jersey
As the home of Johnson & Johnson’s headquarters and the MDL court, New Jersey is central to talc litigation.
- MDL No. 2738 is based in the District of New Jersey
- Thousands of federal cases are coordinated here
- State courts have also hosted high-profile trials
New Jersey judges are experienced in complex product liability cases, and the state allows both compensatory and punitive damages2.
4. Illinois
Illinois—especially Cook County (Chicago)—has seen a steady stream of mesothelioma and ovarian cancer claims.
- $45 million verdict in Chicago (2023)
- Favorable venue for asbestos-related litigation
Illinois courts are known for their efficiency and openness to scientific evidence in toxic tort cases.
5. Pennsylvania
Philadelphia has recently launched a mass tort program for talcum powder lawsuits, with bellwether trials scheduled for 2026.
- Increasing filings in the Court of Common Pleas
- Strategic alternative to MDL for plaintiffs seeking faster resolution
Pennsylvania’s judiciary has a strong track record in pharmaceutical and product liability litigation.
Other Active States
- Texas: Hosts bankruptcy proceedings and has seen filings related to Johnson & Johnson’s “Texas Two-Step” strategy.
- Florida: Rising number of filings, especially in Miami and Tampa.
- Massachusetts: Recent $8 million verdict in Boston (2025) for mesothelioma linked to talc use.
- Connecticut: $15 million verdict awarded in 2024 for asbestos-related mesothelioma.
- Oregon: $260 million verdict upheld in 2024 for mesothelioma caused by talc exposure.
Why Certain States Attract More Talc Lawsuits
Judicial Experience
States like California, Missouri, and New Jersey have judges familiar with mass torts, toxic exposure, and complex scientific evidence.
Plaintiff-Friendly Laws
Some states allow:
- Punitive damages
- Broad discovery rules
- Lenient statutes of limitations
- Favorable jury instructions
Strategic Filing
Attorneys may file in jurisdictions with:
- Prior large verdicts
- Efficient court systems
- High plaintiff success rates
This practice, known as forum shopping, is legal but controversial.
Filing in Federal vs. State Court
Plaintiffs can choose to file:
- In state court, often for individual claims or non-J&J products
- In federal court, especially if joining MDL No. 2738
State courts may offer faster trials and more control, while federal MDL provides shared resources and coordinated proceedings.
Final Thoughts
Talcum powder lawsuits have been filed nationwide, but certain states—California, Missouri, New Jersey, Illinois, and Pennsylvania—have emerged as legal hotspots due to favorable laws, experienced judges, and precedent-setting verdicts. Understanding where cases are most commonly filed can help victims and attorneys make strategic decisions about where to pursue justice.
If you or a loved one developed ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, or another talc-related illness, consult a qualified talcum powder attorney who understands the regional dynamics of talc litigation. With thousands of cases pending and new verdicts announced regularly, now is the time to act.
References
- Drugwatch. (2025). Talcum powder lawsuit: Cancer claims & eligibility. https://www.drugwatch.com/talcum-powder/lawsuits/
- LezDo TechMed. (2025). Talcum powder lawsuits update 2025: What’s up?. https://www.lezdotechmed.com/blog/talcum-powder-lawsuits/
- Helbock Law. (2025). Who qualifies for a talcum powder lawsuit in the United States?. https://www.helbocklaw.com/who-qualifies-for-a-talcum-powder-lawsuit-in-the-united-states/
- Oberheiden P.C. (2025). Talcum powder lawsuit (July update). https://federal-lawyer.com/injury-lawsuit/talcum-powder/
- Lawsuit Information Center. (2025). Talc baby powder lawsuit | July 2025 settlement update. https://www.lawsuit-information-center.com/2-billion-verdict-in-missouri-motivates-jj-to-settle-talcum-powder-lawsuits.html