Last reviewed against primary sources: June 11, 2026
Statute of Limitations
2-year statute of limitations for personal injury with discovery rule. The clock starts when the plaintiff discovered or should have discovered that their cancer was caused by talcum powder. New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act claims may carry a separate SOL and provide treble damages.
2028-06-30
Filing Venue
Where to File in New Jersey
New Jersey is the federal MDL venue for talcum powder litigation. MDL 2738 is housed in the District of New Jersey under Judge Michael Shipp (succeeding Judge Freda Wolfson, who retired). J&J’s corporate headquarters in New Brunswick give New Jersey courts personal jurisdiction over the primary defendant. State court cases are filed in the Superior Court of the county where the plaintiff resides or where J&J conducts business. The first MDL bellwether trial — Judkins v. J&J — is scheduled for early 2026.
New Jersey Data
Exposure in New Jersey
Source: JPML
Source: Court records
Source: NJ Rev. Stat.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the talcum powder litigation about?
Lawsuits allege that talc-based powder products were contaminated with asbestos or otherwise contributed to ovarian cancer and mesothelioma, and that the manufacturer failed to warn consumers. The litigation has involved a large number of claims and ongoing disputes over the manufacturer's attempts to resolve them, including through bankruptcy proceedings.
Do I qualify for a talcum powder lawsuit?
Whether someone may qualify for a talcum powder claim generally depends on factors such as the diagnosis or injury, the history of using or being exposed to the product, and when the condition was diagnosed. The clearest way to find out is a confidential case review. People's Justice is not a law firm; we connect people with attorneys who can evaluate their individual situation.
Is there a deadline to file a talcum powder claim?
Yes. Each state sets a statute of limitations — a legal deadline for filing — and the time limit varies by state and can depend on when you discovered your injury. Because these deadlines can be strict and missing one may permanently bar a claim, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
How much does it cost to pursue a talcum powder claim?
Many attorneys who handle talcum powder claims work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning their fee is typically a percentage of any recovery rather than an upfront payment; the specific terms are set in the agreement between the client and the attorney. A confidential case review can explain how this would work for an individual situation. People's Justice is not a law firm.
What kinds of compensation can a talcum powder claim seek?
Compensation in injury and product-liability claims can include categories such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Whether any compensation is available, and how much, depends entirely on the specific facts of each case, and no outcome can be promised. An attorney can explain what may apply to your situation during a free review.
