The Cook Group Secures Summary Judgment in Asbestos-Related Wrongful Death Case in Cook County, Illinois

Chicago, IL — The Cook Group is pleased to announce a successful defense outcome in an asbestos-related wrongful death case pending in Cook County, Illinois. The firm’s Chicago-based litigation team obtained summary judgment on behalf of the client, with the court finding that the plaintiff failed to raise a genuine issue of material fact linking the decedent’s alleged exposure to the defendant.

The plaintiff alleged that asbestos exposure occurred via the decedent’s spouse, who was purportedly employed at a facility associated with the defendant. However, the court concluded that the plaintiff did not provide sufficient evidence to establish that the spouse was employed by the defendant or that any asbestos exposure could be attributed to the company. The court further emphasized that the plaintiff failed to identify the client in deposition testimony or offer admissible documentation connecting the alleged exposure to the defendant.

In granting summary judgment, the court relied on longstanding Illinois precedent, which requires plaintiffs in asbestos litigation to present specific evidence identifying the defendant’s product or conduct as a source of exposure. The court ultimately held that the plaintiff’s failure to “connect the dots” warranted dismissal of the claims.

This result was achieved through a focused and strategic effort by The Cook Group’s litigation team, Meredith S. Hudgens and Anna Liisa Schourek. Anna Liisa Schourek authored and argued the motion for summary judgment, delivering a clear and compelling presentation that underscored the evidentiary deficiencies in the plaintiff’s case.

The Cook Group remains committed to providing its clients with thoughtful, effective representation in complex litigation matters nationwide.