N.J. Court Retains Jurisdiction over Asbestos Case, Says Forum Defendants Not Properly Served Prior to Removal

NEWARK, N.J. –– A New Jersey federal court has retained jurisdiction over an asbestos cosmetic talc case, saying that since the plaintiff had no served the forum defendants prior to removal, the case could remain in federal court.

In the June 20 decision, the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey stated that it was confined to a recent 3rd Circuit ruling that acknowledged that New Jersey’s process of service rules could end in a “peculiar result” when it comes to removal.

Robert Manz asserted the claims, contending that he was exposed to asbestos fibers in Baby …