What Happened?
Paraquat is one of the most toxic herbicides in use — it is banned in over 50 countries including the European Union, China, and Switzerland but remains legal in the United States. It is used primarily on row crops, vineyards, and orchards. Studies spanning more than two decades have consistently found a strong association between paraquat exposure and Parkinson's disease. The mechanism is understood: paraquat crosses the blood-brain barrier and selectively damages dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra — the exact cells that die in Parkinson's disease. It produces oxidative stress through the same mechanism as MPTP, a known Parkinson's-inducing neurotoxin. The EPA's own scientific advisory panel found that paraquat causes Parkinson's disease. Syngenta (the primary manufacturer) and Chevron Phillips Chemical have been defendants in consolidated litigation. Internal documents obtained in discovery show manufacturers knew of the Parkinson's risk and worked to minimize regulatory action.
Who Qualifies?
You were exposed to paraquat herbicide for at least 10 days per year for a period of years. Exposure routes: mixing or applying paraquat, working in fields where paraquat was applied, living near fields where paraquat was regularly sprayed (within approximately 500 feet). You have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease by a neurologist. The exposure preceded the Parkinson's diagnosis by at least several years (typically 10+ years, as Parkinson's develops slowly after the initial neuronal damage).
Primary Diagnoses:
Litigation Status
MDL 3004 — In re: Paraquat Products Liability Litigation — is consolidated in the Southern District of Illinois before Judge Nancy Rosenstengel. Over 5,000 cases filed as of 2025. The litigation is at an active pretrial stage with bellwether trials scheduled. This tort is pre-settlement — cases are still in litigation, which means full jury trial values apply rather than settlement discounts.
Estimated Compensation
Because Paraquat is in active litigation pre-global settlement, case values are higher than post-settlement torts. Cases with strong occupational exposure histories and confirmed Parkinson's disease from a movement disorder specialist are valued in the range of $100,000-$500,000+ by plaintiff attorneys. Wrongful death cases where Parkinson's contributed to death may be higher.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I document exposure to Paraquat?
Do residents who lived near sprayed fields qualify?
What kind of Parkinson's diagnosis is needed?
What does 'pre-settlement' mean for my case value?
Can I file if a family member passed away from Parkinson's?
Is Paraquat the same as Roundup?
Do I need to have a pesticide license to prove I used it?
How long does a Paraquat lawsuit take?
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