Mistrial Declared in Latest Roundup Weed Killer Lawsuit

Mistrial Declared in Latest Roundup Weed Killer Lawsuit

Introduction

A judge in the latest Roundup trial declared a mistrial following remarks made by the defendant’s legal team, highlighting the ongoing variability in Roundup case outcomes.

Motion for mistrial

During cross-examination, a Monsanto attorney referenced an alcohol-related criminal charge against the plaintiff, which the judge deemed serious misconduct. The plaintiff’s legal team promptly filed a motion for a mistrial, which the judge granted the same day.

Bayer's denial

Bayer, Monsanto’s parent company since 2018, defended the attorney’s actions, stating that the line of questioning about injury risk factors was appropriate. The company also described the plaintiff’s decision to seek a mistrial as “unusual and telling.” Bayer reiterated its confidence in the safety of Roundup, citing extensive scientific research and regulatory findings, and denied the product’s link to the plaintiff’s injury.

Third outcome in recent lawsuits

This mistrial is the third distinct outcome in recent Roundup trials. Earlier cases have centered on claims that Monsanto failed to warn consumers about the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma associated with glyphosate, Roundup's active ingredient. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies glyphosate as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.”

$78 million to a plaintiff who developed non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Recent verdicts have varied widely. In October, a Philadelphia jury awarded $78 million to a plaintiff who developed non-Hodgkin lymphoma after decades of Roundup use. However, in November, another Philadelphia jury sided with Monsanto in a similar case.
With over 4,000 Roundup lawsuits pending, Bayer has announced plans to petition the U.S. Supreme Court to review a Roundup case, potentially bringing resolution during the 2025-26 session.