Defense Verdict Rendered in First Northampton County Trial

PHILADELPHIA - In the second phase of a reverse bifurcated trial that ended with an award of $1.9 million to an ex-smoker exposed to asbestos, a Philadelphia jury has found that neither of the remaining defendants will contribute to damages. Gillespie v. A.P. Green, No. 990303033 (Pa. Comm. Pls., Philadelphia Cty.).

The jury returned its verdict July 16, finding that defendant Mobil Corp. was not responsible for contributing to Charles Gillespie's lung cancer.

According to sources, the same jury voted 5-2 in favor of assessing liability to John Crane. In order to receive contribution for the asbestos liability from …