Products Liability

Harman Claytor represents companies that design, manufacture, market, distribute and sell consumer products and materials. With our experienced attorneys and staff, and the extensive network of expert witnesses to which we have access, we are poised to respond to the legal challenges any company faces when a product defect is alleged. We have successfully defended cases involving a great variety of products, including aircraft; motor vehicles; industrial equipment; medical and pharmaceutical devices; sports and recreational equipment; elevators; food products and containers; asbestos, silicosis and lead paint; power tools; construction equipment; and products and safety equipment.

Many product cases arise out of the consumer’s misuse of the product. Nonetheless, no matter how extensive the warnings or elaborate the safety precautions, virtually any product is susceptible to a legal claim challenging its safety or integrity. When litigation ensues, we offer a unique combination of experience, confidence, legal expertise and commitment to our clients -- a combination of skills and characteristics that consistently leads to favorable results.

Our attorneys practice in state and federal courts throughout Virginia, at both the trial and appellate levels, and are actively involved in products liability-related organizations, including the Products Liability Sections of the Defense Research Institute and the Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys. We are eminently capable in presenting complex legal and technical issues to judges and juries, and arbitrators and mediators, where appropriate. No matter the forum, our hard work and preparation, in-depth knowledge of the law and creative, passionate advocacy always manifests itself in a compelling and persuasive presentation.

In most products liability cases, a winning effort depends upon a reliable showing that the client adhered to the accepted industry standards pertaining to the design, manufacture and warnings related to the product at issue. To mount a strong defense, attorneys rely on experts who have worked extensively with the product and governing standards. At Harman Claytor, we know how products work. We also have access to the top experts in any given industry. Whether it be a mechanical engineer, a human factors expert, a chemist or a forensic pathologist, our network of experts ensures that our clients have industry leaders on their side.

Article

An Alternative to the Sanction of Dismissal for Spoliation, The Journal of Civil Litigation, Vol. XX, No. 4 (Winter 2008-2009).