Louisiana Appeals Court Allows Early Trial Date for Lung Cancer Case

NEW ORLEANS - A Louisiana appeals court has ruled that a lung cancer case in which the plaintiff is likely to die within six months can be expedited, despite defendant's argument that it will be denied due process if it is forced to trial without time to prepare. Curole, et al. v. Avondale Industries, Inc., et al., No. 2001-C-1808 (La. Ct. App., 4th Cir.).

The Court of Appeal of Louisiana, Fourth Circuit, found on Oct. 17 that the trial court is required under Louisiana Civil Code to allow plaintiffs preferential treatment and consideration if plaintiff is not expected to live …