Insight

The Winning Edge

In its 40th year, Frantz Law Group finalized history-making settlements for clients in California and nationally.

Frantz Law Group
JS

Justin Smulison

November 13, 2020 08:00 AM

For more than 40 years, Frantz Law Group has been one of the premier plaintiffs’ law firms in the United States bringing compassion, experience, skill, and intergrity to the fight for justice on behalf of those who have been severely injured or died through the negligence of others.

Frantz Law Group has litigated, tried to jury verdict, or settled nearly every imaginable type of personal injury claim. The legendary firm and its attorneys have never lost sight of what drew them to the practice of law in the first place. In fact, it is quite the opposite. Through careers spent righting the wrongs of carmakers, trucking companies, medical device manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, public utilities, and more, the attorneys at Frantz Law Group continue their fight to level the playing field for everyday people who face a significant tragedy in their lives caused by the recklessness and negligence of others.

The core of the firm’s philosophy centers around broader accountability and changing the bad behavior of individuals and institutions in order to limit the reoccurrence of catastrophic events.

For example, since 2017, the firm has been representing thousands of plaintiffs in lawsuits against (PG&E) after the utility’s equipment caused 21 major fire disasters in northern California, killing 45 people and destroying thousands of homes and businesses. Moreover, PG&E’s absolute reckless failure to inspect and maintain its electrical equipment led to the almost complete annihilation of the town of Paradise in 2018, killing 85 adults and children and severely injuring scores of others. More than 18,000 homes and businesses were destroyed.

While working hard to make sure that the wildfire victims are well compensated, Frantz Law Group (along with the California Governor Gavin Newsom and other involved plaintiffs’ counsel), supported legislative change to enhance PG&E’s overall safety practices. The final result is a magnificent victory for California Residents. State Assembly Bill 1054 establishes a $20 billion fund to provide compensation for future fire victims including restitution for destruction of homes and businesses. The Assembly Bill also requires enhanced safety protocols to be implemented by all California public utilities.

Institutional change at PG&E is especially warranted due to the serious civil and criminal allegations wherein PG&E knew that its electrical tower (near the City of Paradise) was dangerously defective and had been in disrepair for almost ten years. But each year PG&E evaluated the risk and declined to repair so as to enhance profits!

Frantz Law Group also represents more than 1,000 victims of the 2017 Southern California Thomas fire/Montecito mudslides and 2018 Woolsey fire. Southern California Edison’s alleged negligence caused the destruction of more than 3,000 homes and businesses and killed 26 adults and children.

In other historic litigation concerning the dangerous dietary supplement Ephedra, the work of Frantz Law Group was a significant factor with respect to the United States Food and Drug Administration’s final decision to permanently ban the sale of ephedra-based dietary supplements. Ephedra was linked to heart attacks and strokes. In fact, Frantz Law Group (and co-counsel) won an $18.5 million verdict in an ephedra-related trial, proving that ephedra-based products were dangerous to humans, and the claims of safety were false and misleading.

Mr. Frantz was asked to testify, before Congress, about his ephedra-related verdict. He provided congressional testimony concerning factual findings (by the Court) that ephedrine alkaloids were unsafe and responsible for numerous serious injuries and deaths in the U.S.

Five months after the congressional testimony of Mr. Frantz (and other prominent medical experts), ephedrine alkaloids were permanently banned across the nation.

Vaping Epidemic

The team of attorneys and dedicated staff at Frantz Law Group are now battling to achieve a similar outcome (monetary damages and injunctive relief) against JUUL Labs, Inc. (JUUL) and related e-cigarette manufacturers and distributors.

JUUL’s internal documents reportedly evidence that it (and others) are using the insidious and deceptive marketing strategies of Big Tobacco to promote their highly addictive vaping products to children, as young as 8 years of age. In an effort to “hook” children and youth into using their product, it is reported that JUUL maximized the nicotine concentration in each nicotine pod so each pod contains the equivalent of one pack of cigarettes (which explains the high addiction rate).

It is further reported that students and other users have been (and continue to be) induced to vape these products with JUUL’s introduction of enticing flavors such as crème brûlée, mint, mango, and fruit medley. Now, more than one million high school students reported vaping daily and the numbers are increasing!

According to a Harvard professor of pediatrics, “nicotine addiction can take hold in only a few days, especially in the developing adolescent brain that is particularly vulnerable to addiction to nicotine.” Recent studies have shown that even brief exposure to low doses of nicotine can produce lasting behavioral changes in the adolescent brain as well as cause significant lung disease and cognitive impairment.

JUUL purportedly downplayed the dangers of nicotine and worked to position its brand that vaping is “cool and safe” thereby luring youth into a false sense of security. Initial packaging did not even disclose the presence of any nicotine in the product!

The Firm currently has been retained by more than 1,300 schools nationwide to prosecute claims in California Federal and State Court to assist the school districts in their ongoing struggles to address the significant disruption of their educational programs (as a result of nicotine vaping both inside the classroom and on campus).

In addition, Frantz Law Group is seeking reasonable compensation for the schools to enable the districts to recover the significant vaping (monitoring) costs necessary to restrict vaping, as well as get funding for the substantial costs to employ behavioral and health experts (to counsel students).

Moreover, nicotine addiction is of paramount concern to Frantz Law Group (and its school district clients). Collectively, the districts and this firm ultimately seek to drastically reduce the escalation of student vaping, on and off campus, thereby potentially mitigating these serious health effects.

Finally, the firm on behalf of all of its JUUL clients seeks injunctive relief to ban JUUL nicotine vaping in its entirety. Ultimately, “there is a lot at stake for our clients in the various types of litigation we are prosecuting (including JUUL),” James Frantz says. “We are methodical in how we prepare our cases and leave no stone unturned. We are passionate about our work and totally committed to win and make our communities safer.

Headline Image: David Hartig

Related Articles

Strategy and Resilience


by Justin Smulison

Easton & Easton partners discuss how innovating during 2020’s uncertainty led to stronger injury cases, new practice areas, and greater success.

Easton & Easton

Trial Law Leadership


by Justin Smulison

Daniel J.T. Sciano, twice-named Best Lawyers® San Antonio “Lawyer of the Year” for Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs (2010, 2012), discusses how his record of success impacts clients and Texas’ legal community

Daniel Sciano Best Lawyers 2020

Leading Cause of Car Accidents in Alabama? Failing to Yield the Right of Way


by Mitchel Lattof

Failing to yield the right of way was the leading cause of car accidents in Alabama in 2018. According to the Alabama Department of Transportation, failing to yield the right of way resulted in 23,832 crashes. Ninety-six of those crashes resulted in fatalities.

Shards of car glass on the street

How to Handle Your Medical Bills After a Car Accident


by Craig D. Rosenbaum

Receiving medical attention after a car accident can be expensive. One personal injury lawyer details the steps to take when seeking medical attention after the accident.

Car Accident

A Potentially Precedent-Shifting Verdict


by Sean Stonefield

Preeminent trial lawyer Benedict Morelli on achieving one of the highest pain-and-suffering awards in New York State history.

Benedict Morelli

Overcoming Obstacles


by Sean Stonefield

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, personal injury firm Block O’Toole & Murphy is on track for its most successful year.

Block O'Toole & Murphy

What to Do If You Become a Victim of Police Brutality?


by Edson Legal and Grillo Law

Two Toronto firms, one focusing on police brutality and the other on personal injury, give advice on what are the next steps you should take if you find yourself the victim of police brutality or abuse.

What Can You Do If You Are a Victim of Police

Big Case Warriors


by Best Lawyers

The co-founders of Lyons & Simmons, LLP discuss their relentless dedication to pursuing justice for clients while also invoking change.

Lyons & Simmons Best Lawyers 2020

Billy N. Jones - Georgia 2020 Lawyer of the Year


by Best Lawyers

Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs Savannah, GA

Billy N. Jones

Wearing a Hard Hat Significantly Reduces Risk of Injury, Death on NYC Construction Sites


by Michele Mirman

Construction Injury Prevention From Hard Hats

Why Expert Help Is Essential After a Car Accident


by Ted Lorenz

An Attorney Can Help Investigate After an Accident

A Legal Expert Can Help After A Car Accident

No Challenge Too Big


by Justin Smulison

Following its most successful year to date, Easton & Easton continues its streak of notable victories for California’s injured.

No Challenge Too Big

A Cohesive Team


by Best Lawyers

How Bentley & More LLP Combined Forces

A Cohesive Team

An Interview With R. Lewis Van Blois


by Best Lawyers

Oaklands' 2020 "Lawyer of the Year" honoree in Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs

An Interview With R. Lewis Van Blois

Understanding Statute of Limitations in Personal Injury Cases


by Best Lawyers

In personal injury cases, the statute of limitations can vary depending on several factors. To navigate the process, consider hiring a legal professional.

Animated woman holding a clock and coin while balancing on plank

Why You Should Hire a Lawyer When Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit


by Best Lawyers

When filing personal injury claims, which is typically a complex and distressing process, consider consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney.

Unseen individual with hand brace points to a legal contract

Trending Articles

A Celebration of Excellence: The Best Lawyers in Canada 2024 Awards


by Best Lawyers

As we embark on the 18th edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada™, we are excited to highlight excellence and top legal talent across the country.

Abstract image of red and white Canada flag in triangles

The Long, Short, Thick and Thin of It


by Avrohom Gefen

“Appearance discrimination” based on employees’ height and weight is the latest hot-button issue in employment law. Here’s a guide to avoid discrimination.

Woman stands in front of mirror holding suit jacket

Trailblazing Titans of the Industry: Announcing the 4th Edition Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America


by Best Lawyers

Best Lawyers honor and celebrate these talented, innovative newer lawyers who are trailblazing their way to victories in courtrooms across the country.

Connected web above map of the U.S.

Announcing the 2023 The Best Lawyers in America Honorees


by Best Lawyers

Only the top 5.3% of all practicing lawyers in the U.S. were selected by their peers for inclusion in the 29th edition of The Best Lawyers in America®.

Gold strings and dots connecting to form US map

Pearls of Wisdom: Celebrating 30 Editions of Best Lawyers’ Rankings


by Best Lawyers

In celebration of our landmark 30th edition, Best Lawyers’ leadership explains how the world’s original and most trusted legal awards maintain their esteem, integrity and reputation for excellence among the top legal entities and their clients.

Best Lawyers logo for 30th edition release with gold glitter in background

Vanguards of Victory: Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada 2024


by Best Lawyers

The third edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada™ has been announced, and the lawyers showcased by these awards are rising to the challenge each day as advocates for clients all across the country.

Blue and black background with small squares connected by lines

Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America for 2023


by Best Lawyers

The third edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America™ highlights the legal talent of lawyers who have been in practice less than 10 years.

Three arrows made of lines and dots on blue background

IN PARTNERSHIP

Thomson Rogers: Toronto Personal Injury Lawyers


by Thomson Rogers

Since establishment in 1935, Toronto-based firm Thomson Rogers has consistently delivered results for their clients struggling through complex litigation.

Top of a Staircase Featuring Two Large Black Doors with Bookshelves and Chairs on Each Side

Announcing the 2023 The Best Lawyers in Canada Honorees


by Best Lawyers

The Best Lawyers in Canada™ is entering its 17th edition for 2023. We highlight the elite lawyers awarded this year.

Red map of Canada with white lines and dots

The Best Lawyers in South Africa™ 2023


by Best Lawyers

Best Lawyers proudly announces lawyers recognized in South Africa for 2023.

South African flag

IN PARTNERSHIP

How Long Does a Felony Stay On Your Record in California


by Peter Blair

A felony can remain on your record for life in California. Some felonies qualify for expungement. Learn how to remove a felony conviction from your record in California.

Hand setting bird free out of a guarded fence

What the Courts Say About Recording in the Classroom


by Christina Henagen Peer and Peter Zawadski

Students and parents are increasingly asking to use audio devices to record what's being said in the classroom. But is it legal? A recent ruling offer gives the answer to a question confusing parents and administrators alike.

Is It Legal for Students to Record Teachers?

Announcing the 2022 Best Lawyers® in the United States


by Best Lawyers

The results include an elite field of top lawyers listed in the 28th Edition of The Best Lawyers in America® and in the 2nd Edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America for 2022.

2022 Best Lawyers Listings for United States

The Upcycle Conundrum


by Karen Kreider Gaunt

Laudable or litigious? What you need to know about potential copyright and trademark infringement when repurposing products.

Repurposed Products and Copyright Infringemen

The Best Lawyers in Australia™ 2024 Launch


by Best Lawyers

Best Lawyers is excited to announce The Best Lawyers in Australia™ for 2023, including the top lawyers and law firms from Australia.

Australian Parliament beside water at sunset

Wage and Overtime Laws for Truck Drivers


by Greg Mansell

For truck drivers nationwide, underpayment and overtime violations are just the beginning of a long list of problems. Below we explore the wages you are entitled to but may not be receiving.

Truck Driver Wage and Overtime Laws in the US