Big Tobacco Seeks Summary Judgment in Asbestos Synergy Case

OAKLAND, Calif. - Arguments over whether an asbestos-tobacco synergy case should be thrown out of a California court because it mirrors a Mississippi case disposed of by the remoteness doctrine have been taken under advisement. Fibreboard Corp. v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., et al., No. 791919-8 (Calif. Super. Ct., Alameda Cty.).

Alameda County Superior Court Judge Ken M. Kawaichi heard arguments from both sides Nov. 20 and is expected to rule within the next month on a motion for summary judgment filed by several tobacco companies named in the suit.

Asbestos defendants Fibreboard and Owens Corning are seeking recovery of …