Paraquat Lawsuit
- Upd: November 19, 2025
-
Sarah Miller
- Fact Checked By Our Attorneys
Farmers, agricultural workers, and families across the U.S. are filing Paraquat lawsuits after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease linked to long-term Paraquat exposure. Paraquat dichloride is a highly toxic herbicide used to control weeds and continues to be sold and sprayed in the United States despite bans in other countries. Studies have shown that exposure to this chemical can damage the nervous system and lead to life-altering conditions.
If you or a loved one developed Parkinson’s after working with or living near Paraquat, you may qualify for significant compensation. Check your eligibility for a Paraquat lawsuit today. Legal help is free, confidential, and available to affected families nationwide.
No Win, No Fee. Let the Best Paraquat Lawyers Fight for your Compensation!
Key Takeaways:
- Paraquat exposure causes Parkinson’s disease: Long term contact can lead to serious neurological damage.
MDL consolidates cases: Plaintiffs can pursue compensation efficiently while keeping individual rights.
Settlements vary: Payouts depend on exposure, severity, and documentation, ranging from $20K to $1M+.
- Expert legal help is essential; Experienced attorneys maximize compensation and prove the link to exposure.
Latest Paraquat Lawsuit Update in 2025
In 2025, the Paraquat litigation continues to develop rapidly as new Paraquat lawsuits have been filed across the country. The Paraquat class action MDL remains active, consolidating claims from victims who have developed Parkinson’s disease due to Paraquat exposure. Several bellwether trials are scheduled this year to test scientific causation evidence and establish precedent for future Paraquat plaintiffs.
Affected individuals are encouraged to contact Plaintiffs Paraquat lawyers to discuss eligibility and learn about potential Paraquat lawsuit settlements. Legal experts predict that 2025 may see significant developments in Paraquat class action litigation and new opportunities for victims to receive compensation for Paraquat poisoning and its long-term health consequences.
January 2025
The first quarter of 2025 began with multiple new Paraquat lawsuits filed nationwide. Plaintiffs allege that prolonged exposure to toxic herbicide Paraquat led to developing Parkinson’s disease. Plaintiff assessment questionnaires were issued to streamline case documentation, and Paraquat attorneys began gathering scientific evidence to support causal link claims.
February 2025
Courts began reviewing first bellwether test trial cases scheduled for mid-2025. Several Paraquat MDL class action claims were consolidated for efficiency. Paraquat plaintiffs asserted that indirect Paraquat exposure at homes near sprayed fields contributed to their Parkinson’s disease symptoms.
March 2025
The MDL judge Rosenstengel approved additional plaintiff depositions, increasing pressure on Paraquat defendants. Lawyers emphasized the importance of medical records and exposure history to establish scientific causation evidence. New Paraquat lawsuits focused on both occupational and environmental exposure.
April 2025
Plaintiffs in the Paraquat class action lawsuit began receiving notifications of bellwether trials. Lawyers prepared Paraquat lawsuit settlements strategies and highlighted the potential for compensation tiers depending on disease severity. Health experts confirmed that acute kidney failure and other poisoning symptoms Paraquat can result from prolonged exposure.
May 2025
Courts reviewed first Paraquat trial evidence. Lawyers representing plaintiffs pushed for recognition of causal links between herbicide Paraquat and Parkinson’s disease. The Unified Parkinson’s Advocacy Council issued a statement supporting victims and urging awareness about toxic chemicals in agriculture.
June 2025
Additional Plaintiffs Paraquat lawyers were appointed for newly filed cases. Reports emphasized motor symptoms and non-motor symptoms as critical evidence for Paraquat Parkinson’s lawsuits. Legal experts noted the ongoing mass tort litigation could influence future Paraquat settlement amounts.
July 2025
The first bellwether test trial officially began. Lawyers for Paraquat plaintiffs presented scientific evidence linking Paraquat dichloride exposure to developing Parkinson’s disease. Plaintiffs assert that both occupational and indirect exposure should be considered in compensation decisions.
August 2025
Mid-year updates reported six Paraquat lawsuits progressing through federal courts. Paraquat attorneys prepared for additional discovery rounds. Courts emphasized the importance of thorough plaintiff assessment questionnaires to avoid poorly vetted Paraquat lawsuits.
September 2025
Paraquat class action MDL hearings focused on the bellwether trial outcomes. Plaintiffs lawyers highlighted scientific causation evidence while Paraquat defendants argued against liability. Legal analysts anticipate early Paraquat lawsuit settlements by year-end.
October 2025
A federal judge approved additional plaintiff depositions to strengthen Paraquat Parkinson’s disease lawsuits. Advocacy groups called for stricter regulations and a complete ban on Paraquat. Plaintiffs attorneys prepared motions for Paraquat settlement amounts discussions.
November 2025
Courts began reviewing settlement frameworks for the Paraquat MDL class action. Paraquat plaintiffs were advised to maintain detailed records of poisoning symptoms Paraquat and medical treatment history. Experts suggest that new Paraquat lawsuits will continue to emerge through the end of the year.
Previous Paraquat Lawsuit Updates (2021–2024)
Between 2021 and 2024, the Paraquat MDL expanded as courts consolidated hundreds of cases. Early bellwether trials tested evidence linking Paraquat to Parkinson’s disease. Multiple Paraquat class action lawsuits advanced, with some early settlements providing compensation for developed Parkinson’s disease in occupational and environmental exposure cases. Scientific studies confirmed toxicity and neurological damage, strengthening plaintiffs’ claims.
Key milestones included:
- Expanded discovery and deposition phases for plaintiffs and Paraquat attorneys
- Early bellwether trials establishing scientific causation evidence
- Coordination between plaintiffs lawyers to standardize plaintiff assessment questionnaires
- Increased public attention on toxic paraquat chemical and regulatory scrutiny
Paraquat Lawsuit Updates 2016–2020
Early years saw the first lawsuits filed. Significant developments include:
- 2016: First claims filed against Paraquat manufacturers for Parkinson’s disease linked to Paraquat contact
- 2017: Initial scientific studies presented causal links between herbicide Paraquat and neurological damage
- 2018: Federal courts consolidated cases into a Paraquat Multidistrict Litigation MDL to manage mass tort litigation
- 2019: Early bellwether trial cases scheduled to assess scientific causation evidence
- 2020: Paraquat Parkinson’s disease lawsuits grew as more plaintiffs joined; legal claim processes standardized
Who’s at Risk of Paraquat Exposure and Parkinson’s?
Farmers, agricultural workers, landscapers, gardeners, transport workers, and those living near sprayed fields face the highest risk of Paraquat exposure. Individuals with prolonged contact with toxic herbicide Paraquat are at an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. Studies show that indirect Paraquat exposure can also contribute to long-term neurological harm.
How Do People Get Exposed to Paraquat?
Exposure usually occurs through:
- Skin contact during handling or spraying of herbicide Paraquat
- Inhalation of airborne particles or mist
- Spills or contaminated water and soil
- Indirect exposure at homes near treated fields
Even brief contact can lead to paraquat poisoning, while repeated exposure is linked to developing Parkinson’s disease.
How Do I Prove I Was Exposed to Paraquat?
To support a Paraquat Parkinson’s disease lawsuit, you should collect:
- Work history showing use of Paraquat products
- Product usage records or receipts
- Witness statements from co-workers or supervisors
- Medical reports documenting Parkinson’s disease symptoms and acute kidney failure linked to toxic chemical exposure
Exposure to Paraquat and Its Side Effects
Exposure to Paraquat herbicide has been associated with severe short-term poisoning and long-term neurological damage. Victims in Paraquat lawsuits often describe how even limited contact with this toxic chemical caused sudden illness, while years of repeated exposure have led to the slow development of Parkinson’s disease.
Medical research continues to strengthen the connection between Paraquat contact and neurological injury, forming the basis of many Paraquat cases now pending before the Paraquat Multidistrict Litigation MDL judge.
Immediate Side Effects of Paraquat Exposure
Acute Paraquat poisoning can occur after inhaling spray mist, ingesting contaminated food or water, or absorbing the chemical through skin contact. Immediate side effects often include severe breathing difficulties, nausea, vomiting, and painful chemical burns to the mouth, throat, or skin. In more serious situations, exposure can lead to acute kidney failure, lung scarring, and liver damage, which may require emergency medical care. These potential health risks associated with paraquat are among the reasons the Environmental Protection Agency epa has faced growing calls to ban Paraquat entirely.
Long-Term Effects Linked to Parkinson’s Disease
Repeated or prolonged Paraquat contact is scientifically linked to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. The toxic herbicide damages nerve cells responsible for producing dopamine, a chemical essential for motor control and coordination. Over time, this neurological injury can manifest as tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement hallmarks of Parkinson’s disease. Studies reviewed in ongoing Paraquat suits indicate that both direct and indirect exposure may play a role, especially when combined with genetic factors or inadequate safety measures.
In current Paraquat litigation, plaintiffs and Paraquat lawsuit attorneys are presenting scientific causation evidence showing how repeated exposure triggers oxidative stress and cell death in the brain. Even deceased plaintiffs whose families filed wrongful death claims are included in Paraquat settlements under the supervision of the Paraquat Multidistrict Litigation judge.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s Caused by Paraquat
For many victims involved in Paraquat lawsuits, including Parkinson’s disease symptoms appear years after the first exposure. Recognizing these symptoms early is essential for diagnosis and for building a strong legal case. Doctors and plaintiff’s Paraquat lawyers often collaborate to document these symptoms through medical evaluations, which form part of the Plaintiff Assessment Questionnaire in the ongoing Paraquat MDL.
Motor Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Motor symptoms are typically the most visible and distressing effects of Paraquat-related Parkinson’s disease. Victims may notice:
- Tremors in the hands, arms, or legs
- Stiffness and rigidity of muscles
- Slowed movement (bradykinesia) that makes daily activities difficult
- Balance and coordination problems that increase fall risk
These symptoms progress gradually but can become debilitating over time. They are among the primary forms of evidence cited in new Paraquat lawsuits, helping victims demonstrate how exposure to this High-risk herbicide caused lasting harm.
Non-Motor Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Non-motor symptoms often appear before or alongside movement issues and can significantly affect quality of life. Common effects include:
- Fatigue and general loss of energy
- Sleep disturbances, including vivid dreams and insomnia
- Depression, anxiety, or emotional changes
- Cognitive decline affecting memory, focus, and decision-making
These invisible symptoms can make it difficult for victims and families to recognize the connection linked to Paraquat exposure until the condition worsens.
Who Makes Paraquat Dichloride Herbicide?
The Paraquat herbicide has been manufactured and distributed for decades by several major chemical companies, most notably Chevron and Syngenta Chemical Company. Despite mounting evidence connecting Paraquat contact to serious health risks such as diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, these corporations continued to produce and market the toxic chemical.
In ongoing Paraquat lawsuits, plaintiffs and their attorneys argue that these manufacturers knew or should have known about the neurological dangers associated with Paraquat dichloride but failed to warn agricultural workers and the public. As new Paraquat lawsuits continue to emerge, the companies responsible are facing growing legal pressure and scrutiny from both federal courts and public health advocates.
Paraquat Herbicide Products
Paraquat is sold under several brand names and formulations worldwide. Some of the most common Paraquat herbicide products include:
- Gramoxone Manufactured by Syngenta, this is the most recognized brand name for Paraquat dichloride and has been in use since the 1960s.
- Cyclone SL 2.0, Helmquat, and Firestorm Additional commercial formulations widely used in U.S. agriculture.
- Ortho Paraquat CL Previously distributed by Chevron Chemical Company, which worked with Syngenta’s predecessors to market Paraquat in the United States.
- Devour, Bonedry, and other regional formulations Sold by smaller chemical suppliers or agricultural distributors.
These Paraquat defendants are at the center of ongoing litigation, where victims claim that corporate negligence and insufficient warnings led to widespread cases of Paraquat-related Parkinson’s disease.
Paraquat Lawsuit Qualifications
Anyone who has developed Parkinson’s disease or other severe neurological conditions after working with or being exposed to Paraquat may be eligible to file a Paraquat lawsuit. Qualified claimants often include:
- Farmers, agricultural workers, and pesticide applicators regularly handling Paraquat-based herbicides.
- Transport and warehouse workers who came into contact with Paraquat-contaminated materials.
- Residents living near fields where Paraquat was sprayed, potentially suffering indirect exposure.
To build a successful claim, victims should work with an attorney experienced in mass torts and product liability law. Evidence collection typically includes medical records showing diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease , employment or agricultural records proving Paraquat contact, and witness statements. Some claimants also complete a Plaintiff Assessment Questionnaire to help attorneys document exposure timelines and symptoms.
State Court hearing new Paraquat lawsuits often rely on this documentation to determine eligibility and connect the link between Paraquat exposure and Parkinson disease in individual cases.
Deadlines and Statute of Limitations
Filing a Paraquat claim must occur within each state’s statute of limitations, typically ranging from one to six years from the date of diagnosis or discovery of the illness. Missing these deadlines can prevent victims from recovering compensation, though exceptions may apply if exposure was only recently linked likely to develop Parkinson’s disease.
Here are the Paraquat lawsuit deadlines by state:
State | Paraquat Statute of Limitations |
|---|---|
Alabama | 2 years |
Alaska | 2 years |
Arizona | 2 years |
Arkansas | 3 years |
California | 2 years |
Colorado | 2 years |
Connecticut | 3 years |
Delaware | 2 years |
Florida | 4 years |
Georgia | 2 years |
Hawaii | 2 years |
Idaho | 2 years |
Illinois | 2 years |
Indiana | 2 years |
Iowa | 2 years |
Kansas | 2 years |
Kentucky | 1 year |
Louisiana | 1 year |
Maine | 6 years |
Maryland | 3 years |
Massachusetts | 3 years |
Michigan | 3 years |
Minnesota | 4–6 years |
Mississippi | 3 years |
Missouri | 5 years |
Montana | 3 years |
Nebraska | 4 years |
Nevada | 2 years |
New Hampshire | 3 years |
New Jersey | 2 years |
New Mexico | 3 years |
New York | 3 years |
North Carolina | 3 years |
North Dakota | 6 years |
Ohio | 2 years |
Oklahoma | 2 years |
Oregon | 2 years |
Pennsylvania | 2 years |
Rhode Island | 3 years |
South Carolina | 3 years |
South Dakota | 3 years |
Tennessee | 1 year |
Texas | 2 years |
Utah | 2 years |
Vermont | 3 years |
Virginia | 2 years |
Washington | 3 years |
West Virginia | 2 years |
Wisconsin | 3 years |
Wyoming | 4 years |
Paraquat Class Action Lawsuit
Although many people searching for Paraquat class action lawsuit assume these cases are a traditional class action, the reality is different. The bulk of the claims alleging exposure to Paraquat and subsequent diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease have been consolidated into the federal multidistrict litigation (MDL) process specifically In re: Paraquat Products Liability Litigation, MDL 3004 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois.
In an MDL, thousands of individual lawsuits are transferred into one court for coordinated pre-trial proceedings so the common factual and legal issues like exposure to Paraquat, neurotoxicity, causation can be handled efficiently.
It’s important to note that each individual claimant still files a separate lawsuit. That means you are not surrendering your claim to a single collective class action in which all claimants receive identical treatment. You retain your individual case, with your own facts, exposure history, diagnosis, and compensation potential.
What this means for individual claimants:
- You can still file a new Paraquat lawsuit if you meet eligibility requirements (exposure + Parkinson’s diagnosis + timely filing).
- The MDL will help speed up resolution of common issues and may pave the way to settlements or trials, but each case will be evaluated individually (severity of illness, exposure history, state law, etc.).
- Being part of the MDL often means greater legal resources (sharing of expert testimony, coordinated litigation strategy) but also more demand for thorough documentation (employment/exposure records, medical diagnosis, witness statements).
- If a global settlement (or significant partial settlement) is approved by the court, you may participate under the terms of that settlement agreement but you should still seek advice from an attorney to understand how it applies to your situation.
Paraquat Lawsuit Settlement Amounts
One of the most frequent questions from individuals reading about Paraquat litigation is How much can I recover? While there is no guaranteed payout for every claimant, the litigation has produced tier-based estimates and concrete past settlement benchmarks that help frame expectations.
Tier | Estimated Settlement Amount |
|---|---|
Tier I | $400,000 – $1,000,000+ |
Tier II | $150,000 – $300,000 |
Tier III | $20,000 – $150,000 |
Average Settlement for Paraquat Lawsuits
Estimating the average settlement in Paraquat cases is challenging because: the settlement amounts remain partly confidential, many cases are still active, and new filings continue to enter the MDL. That said:
- One source cites that average payouts might fall in the $100,000 to $150,000 range for less severe cases.
- For more severe cases (e.g., full Parkinson’s diagnosis, long-term exposure, significant medical expenses, loss of income), amounts could approach or exceed the Tier I range of $400,000 to $1,000,000+.
- Because each case takes into account individual factors (exposure history, diagnosis, geographic state law, causation evidence), even two claimants in the same MDL may receive very different amounts.
$187.5 Million Paraquat Settlement Awarded
In June 2021, Syngenta disclosed a settlement of $187.5 million to resolve multiple claims linked to Paraquat exposure.
While this figure does not tell us precisely how many claimants or how much each individual received, it provides context: the defendants recognized the risk of trial verdicts or broader exposure and opted to negotiate settlement.
Legal observers interpret this as a signal that future settlements may scale upward especially for claimants with strong evidence of exposure and illness.
Key Variables for a Paraquat Settlement
The final compensation in a Paraquat lawsuit depends on several major variables. Some of the most influential include:
- Severity of illness: A well-documented diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease including motor and non-motor symptoms typically strengthens a claim.
- Exposure history: How long and how intensely the claimant widely used or was exposed to the Paraquat herbicide (mixing, spraying, handling, proximity) is critical.
- Timing of diagnosis relative to exposure: Earlier detection, close temporal link between exposure and illness, and minimal other risk factors help build causation.
- State law and statute of limitations: Each state applies its own rules to how and when you can file a case, which can affect value and viability of settlement.
- Strength of documentation: Employment records, chemical product records, witness testimony, medical records, expert reports all impact the claim.
- Participation in the MDL or settlement framework: Depending on how any global or partial settlement is structured, claimants may receive different tiers or categories of compensation, and being part of the MDL can provide access to shared resources.
- Defendants’ willingness to settle vs. trial exposure: If defendants believe large verdicts are possible, they may offer higher settlements to avoid trial risk.
- Non-monetary factors: Loss of income, life-care costs, pain and suffering, and impact on family members may be factored in.
“The Paraquat lawsuits represent more than legal action. They reflect a growing demand for accountability after decades of exposure linked to serious harm.”
When Will the Paraquat Lawsuit Be Settled?
Many victims are asking when the Paraquat lawsuit will finally reach settlement and when they can expect compensation. As of 2025, the Paraquat Multidistrict Litigation remains active in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois under district Judge Nancy j Rosenstengel. The MDL has consolidated thousands of Paraquat lawsuits that claim a direct connection between Paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s disease.
So far, the MDL has moved through key discovery and bellwether trial phases, which help both sides evaluate the strength of scientific and medical evidence. These bellwether cases are essential for establishing whether the defendants Chevron and Syngenta are likely to face large jury verdicts. Once those outcomes are clear, settlement negotiations usually accelerate.
While there is no official settlement date yet, legal experts expect that the first wave of significant Paraquat settlements could occur between late 2025 and mid-2026, depending on state court rulings and ongoing negotiations. Plaintiffs who filed earlier and have strong medical documentation may be among the first to receive offers.
Those who developed Parkinson’s disease after Paraquat exposure are encouraged to file their claims as soon as possible to be included in upcoming settlement discussions. Even though the MDL process has averaged a long timeline, new plaintiffs can still join the ongoing litigation if their cases meet the eligibility requirements and fall within their state’s statute of limitations.
Choosing a Paraquat Lawsuit Lawyer
Selecting the right Paraquat lawsuit lawyer is critical for successfully pursuing compensation after exposure to this High-risk herbicide. Legal representation ensures your claim is properly documented, submitted on time, and backed by the strongest possible scientific and medical evidence connecting Paraquat contact to Parkinson’s disease.
A qualified lawyer will also help you navigate complex litigation, including the Paraquat MDL, bellwether trials, and potential appeals. With cases sometimes reaching higher courts, including discussions of liability and admissibility of evidence in the Supreme Court arguing, experienced legal guidance is essential.
When choosing a lawyer, look for:
- Expertise in mass torts and toxic exposure cases, specifically with Paraquat.
- A track record of success in handling complex MDL cases.
- Knowledge of the science showing a connection between Paraquat exposure and increased risk of Parkinson’s disease.
- Transparent communication and a clear strategy for pursuing maximum compensation.
The right lawyer ensures your case is not only filed correctly but also positioned to achieve the best possible outcome.
What Does a Paraquat Lawsuit Lawyer Do?
A Paraquat lawsuit lawyer is your advocate at every stage of the legal process. Key responsibilities include:
- Gathering evidence: Collecting employment records, pesticide handling logs, safety reports, and witness statements to demonstrate the connection between Parkinson’s disease and Paraquat exposure.
- Medical documentation: Coordinating with physicians and neurologists to verify the diagnosis and progression of your condition.
- Legal strategy and negotiations: Handling communications with defendants, negotiating potential Paraquat settlement amounts, and advising on trials within the MDL.
- Court representation: Presenting your case effectively in court if a settlement cannot be reached, including preparing for expert testimony and legal arguments in higher courts.
- Guidance throughout the process: Ensuring all forms, including the Plaintiff Assessment Questionnaire, are completed accurately and on time.
Having an experienced lawyer ensures your rights are protected, your exposure and illness are properly documented, and your claim is positioned for the strongest possible outcome.
How to File a Paraquat Lawsuit
Filing a Paraquat lawsuit begins with documenting your exposure and establishing a clear link between Parkinson’s disease and Paraquat exposure. The process involves several key steps:
- Initial Consultation: Speak with a qualified Paraquat lawsuit attorney to determine eligibility. Most firms offer a free case review.
- Documenting Exposure: Collect work history, pesticide usage logs, safety records, and witness statements to show that you were exposed to Paraquat herbicide. Both direct and indirect exposure, such as living near treated fields, may be relevant.
- Medical Documentation: Obtain detailed medical records confirming a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, including onset dates, progression, and any neurological tests linking your condition to toxic chemical exposure.
- Plaintiff Assessment Questionnaire: Complete required forms for the Paraquat Multidistrict Litigation to help your attorney assess the strength of your claim.
- Filing the Claim: Your attorney will file the complaint in federal court as part of the Paraquat MDL, consolidating your case with other plaintiffs while preserving individual rights.
- Discovery and Evidence Review: The defendants will respond, and your attorney will gather additional evidence, expert reports, and documentation to support causation.
- Settlement or Trial: Many cases reach resolution through settlements, which may be guided by Paraquat MDL-averaged outcomes. If a settlement is not reached, your claim could proceed to a bellwether or individual trial.
By following this process with experienced legal guidance, you can maximize your chances of securing fair compensation while holding manufacturers accountable.
Let Our Paraquat Attorneys Fight for You
If you diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after exposure to Paraquat herbicide, time is critical. Our law firm has dedicated Paraquat attorneys can help you navigate the complex MDL process and pursue justice against negligent manufacturers.
Our law firm provide:
- Free case reviews to evaluate your exposure history and medical evidence.
- Expert guidance on filing and documenting your claim within the proper statute of limitations.
- Aggressive representation to ensure your case is included in the Paraquat MDL, maximizing your opportunity for fair settlement amounts.
You do not have to face this fight alone. Let our experienced attorneys help you secure the compensation you deserve for your illness, loss, and suffering.
Contact our law firm today to get started and take the first step toward holding the responsible parties accountable for the link between Paraquat exposure and Parkinson disease.
Related Article
What Philips CPAP Machines Are Recalled and Why
