Many thanks to attorney Floyd Matthews of the Spohrer, Wilner Firm for the report below; he attended the hearing in Denver, Colorado last week.
According to Mr. Matthews, Paul Sizemore of an Alabama law firm argued in favor of establishing an MDL as to Celebrex and Bextra (separate MDL for each). Jurisdictions suggested included New Orleans, Boston, and New York. As to New Orleans it was suggested that a judge other than Judge Fallon be named.
Attorneys for the makers of the drugs argued - obviously - against an MDL. It was argued to the Court that there were only a limited number of SJS potential claims as to Bextra. In rebuttal an informal survey showed more than fifty potential cases involving this condition. It appeared that if an MDL were to be established, defense counsel argued for venue in Illinois, most likely in or near Skokie.
A decision is expected within the next fourteen days.
