Craig Liljestrand Authors Article on Applying Maritime Law Against "Bare Metal Defense"

November 5, 2015

Craig T. Liljestrand, a Chicago-based partner in the Product Liability practice area at Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP, authored the article, "Federal Court Applies Illinois, Maritime Law In Ruling On Expert Testimony, 'Bare Metal' Defense," published by the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin on February 8, 2016. This article is part of Mr. Liljestrand's monthly column with the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin "Toxic Tort Talk."

The article examines the U.S District Court's decision in  Kochera vs. General Electric Co., et  al., 2015 WL 5582341 & 5584769 (S.D. Ill 2015) where in dual opinions, the court allowed the plaintiff's expert to rely on an "every exposure" theory of causation. Applying maritime law, the court rejected an equipment manufacturer's "bare metal" defense where the defendant designed its products to be used with asbestos-containing materials.   

Read the full article "Federal Court Applies Illinois, Maritime Law In Ruling On Expert Testimony, 'Bare Metal' Defense" on the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin website. Please note a subscription is required. 

Craig Liljestrand has extensive experience in the areas of toxic tort, products liability and environmental litigation. He is recognized for his litigation and trial skills in the areas of asbestos, silica, welding fumes, lead paint and occupational disease claims.  

Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP is a U.S.-based law firm with offices nationwide. The firm's national reputation spans the insurance industry, the financial services sector, professional services, and other highly regulated industries. Hinshaw provides holistic legal solutions—from litigation and dispute resolution, and business advisory and transactional services, to regulatory compliance—for clients of all sizes. Visit www.hinshawlaw.com for more information and follow @Hinshaw on LinkedIn and X.