In a notable restructuring move, Jenner & Block has expanded its legal capacity in mass torts and product liability by hiring a team of five lawyers from Mayer Brown, led by Richard Bulger and Daniel Ring. This team is distinguished by its involvement in significant PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) litigation, particularly for notable client 3M Co. Their transition comes at a time of heightened legal scrutiny around PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” due to their persistence in the environment and potential health impacts.
Bulger and Ring will co-chair Jenner’s mass torts and products liability practice alongside existing Jenner partners Dean Panos and Joanna Wright. The firm highlighted the cohesion this addition brings to their national practice. An aspect of note in the decision to move to Jenner & Block was the firm’s stance against certain federal orders under the Trump administration, aligning with broader professional and ethical considerations within the team.
The legal landscape surrounding PFAS has increasingly drawn attention due to regulatory actions and growing environmental litigations. The inclusion of a team experienced in PFAS cases, such as handling litigation efforts in multiple jurisdictions for 3M, positions Jenner & Block strategically in addressing complex chemical litigation issues.
For more detailed information on the move, visit the Bloomberg Law report.