N.C. Federal Judge Awards Novartis Costs in Wake of Aredia/Zometa Trial

RALEIGH, N.C. — A North Carolina federal judge has awarded Novartis $20,847.43 in costs arising from an Aredia/Zometa injury case in which it prevailed at trial, finding the drug maker defended itself in good faith, did not seek excessive costs.

In an Aug. 19 order, Chief Judge James C. Dever III further found the plaintiff failed to support his conclusory statement that paying the costs would cause him to suffer undue financial hardship. However, the judge reduced Novartis’ requested costs by $1,204.10, finding it may not recover witness fees arising from the testimony of its corporate officer.

Jimmy Earp sued …