Jones v. R.J. Reynolds, et al.

Summary

In this tobacco trial, decedent Rita Jones developed fatal lung cancer after smoking cigarettes for over 5 decades.

Jones' family claims that Lorillard knew the dangers of smoking yet worked to hide them from the public. They allege that Jones was so addicted to cigarettes that she failed in multiple attempts to quit.

Defendant R.J. Reynolds, successor-in-interest to Lorillard, claims that Jones knew the risks yet chose to continue smoking. Attorneys for Reynolds present evidence that they believe shows Jones quit for long enough for nicotine withdrawals to pass, yet she eventually decided to continue smoking. They contend that if she had quit permanently at this point, she likely would not have developed lung cancer.

Outcome

Verdict for plaintiff.
Total damages: $200 million
Including $50 million in compensatory damages and $150 million in punitive damages.