Pa. Appellate Court Affirms Summary Judgment Award to Asbestos Defendant, Says Claims Discharged in Bankruptcy

PHILADELPHIA –– A Pennsylvania appellate court has affirmed an award of summary judgment to an asbestos defendant, saying the trial court did not err in finding that the claims had been discharged in bankruptcy proceedings.

In the Jan. 26 order, the Pennsylvania Superior Court explained that the defendant had purchased the assets of the facility at which the plaintiff’s husband worked through bankruptcy proceedings and “free and clear” of interests like the underlying claims.

Plaintiffs Jacqueline S. and Thomas Wagner filed the lawsuit, contending that Jacqueline Wagner was exposed to asbestos fibers brought home on the work clothing of her …