Utah Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawyer

May 6, 2024 | By Greg Jones Law, P.A.
Utah Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawyer

When a pharmaceutical company's drug causes a condition as severe as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), the fight for justice can feel impossible. These corporations have nearly limitless resources to protect their profits, leaving individuals and families to cope with the painful physical, emotional, and financial damage alone. But you do not have to face this battle by yourself. 

Holding a negligent manufacturer accountable requires a legal team prepared to level the playing field. A Utah Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer can provide the dedicated advocacy needed to stand up to corporate negligence and fight for the full compensation you are entitled to. Contact Greg Jones Law today to discuss your case during a free, no-obligation consultation. 

Key Takeaways about Utah Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Cases

  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes, frequently caused by an adverse reaction to medication.
  • Drug manufacturers can be held accountable for injuries caused by their products through product liability claims.
  • Utah law sets specific time limits, known as statutes of limitations, for filing a product liability lawsuit.
  • Individuals affected by SJS may be able to pursue compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
  • A legal case can hold negligent corporations responsible for placing dangerous drugs on the market.

Why Choose Greg Jones Law for Your Utah SJS Case?

Pursuing a claim against a massive pharmaceutical corporation can feel like an impossible challenge. These companies have powerful legal teams dedicated to protecting their profits, not the people their products have harmed. At Greg Jones Law, we focus our practice on holding these corporate giants accountable. 

We are a nationally recognized firm that provides dedicated legal representation to clients across the country, including right here in Utah. From the communities along the Wasatch Front to the red rock landscapes of St. George, we are prepared to stand with you.

Our approach is built on a foundation of personalized care and determined advocacy. We understand that to the person who has been hurt, there is no such thing as a "small case." We handle complex mass tort and product liability claims, with a particular focus on cases involving harmful pharmaceutical drugs.

Here’s how we stand up for our clients:

  • Nationwide Experience: We bring a wealth of knowledge from handling cases across the country against some of the largest corporations in the world.
  • Contingency Fee Basis: Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
  • Dedicated Advocacy: We are committed to fighting for your rights and working tirelessly to build a strong case that demands accountability from those responsible for your injuries.

We believe that no one should have to bear the financial and emotional burden of SJS alone. Our team is ready to provide the compassionate and capable legal support you deserve during this difficult time.

Past Case Results

What is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)?

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a medical emergency that begins with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful red or purplish rash that spreads and blisters. The top layer of the affected skin eventually dies and sheds. SJS is a severe form of a condition called erythema multiforme. When the skin detachment covers more than 30% of the body, the condition is referred to as Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which is even more life-threatening.

While infections can sometimes trigger SJS, the most common cause is an adverse reaction to a medication. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), hundreds of different drugs have been linked to SJS.

Some of the most common signs and symptoms include:

  • Fever, sore throat, and fatigue
  • A painful, rapidly spreading rash
  • Blisters on the skin and mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, eyes, and genitals
  • Shedding of skin after blisters form

Recovery can be long and may involve hospitalization in a burn unit. Patients may face long-term complications like permanent skin damage, scarring, eye problems, and chronic pain.

Holding Negligent Drug Companies Accountable

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When a medication causes a condition as devastating as SJS, you have the right to question who is responsible. In many cases, these situations fall under the area of law known as product liability. In simple terms, product liability law holds manufacturers, distributors, and sellers responsible for placing a defective or dangerous product into the hands of a consumer.

A drug can be considered defective in several ways:

  • Design Defect: The drug's design is inherently unsafe, even when manufactured correctly.
  • Manufacturing Defect: The drug was contaminated or improperly made during the manufacturing process.
  • Failure to Warn: The manufacturer failed to provide adequate warnings or instructions about the drug’s potential risks, including the risk of SJS.

Pharmaceutical companies have a duty to ensure their products are reasonably safe and to warn doctors and patients about known dangers. When they fail in this duty for the sake of profits, a Utah Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer can help you hold them accountable.

Understanding Your Rights Under Utah Law

In Utah, your right to file a claim is governed by the Utah Product Liability Act. This law outlines the requirements for bringing a lawsuit against a manufacturer for a defective product. One of the most critical factors in any legal claim is the statute of limitations. This is a legal term for the strict deadline you have to file a lawsuit.

In Utah, the statute of limitations for a product liability claim is generally two years from the date the claimant "discovered, or in the exercise of due diligence should have discovered, both the harm and its cause.” Because the onset of SJS can sometimes be delayed after starting a medication, calculating this deadline can be complicated. It is important to speak with a legal professional as soon as possible to protect your right to seek justice.

Hear From Our Clients

What Compensation May Be Available in an SJS Lawsuit?

While no amount of money can undo the pain and trauma of developing SJS, securing a fair settlement or verdict can provide crucial financial stability for you and your family. It allows you to cover the costs associated with your injury and focus on your recovery without the added stress of financial hardship.

A successful SJS claim may allow you to recover compensation for a variety of damages, including:

  1. Medical Expenses: This covers everything from initial hospitalization and burn unit care to future surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term treatments for complications.
  2. Lost Income: If you were unable to work during your recovery, you may be compensated for the wages you lost. If SJS has left you with a permanent disability that affects your ability to earn a living, you may also seek compensation for loss of future earning capacity.
  3. Pain and Suffering: This accounts for the immense physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life caused by the condition and its long-term effects.

These forms of compensation are designed to help you manage the significant life changes that SJS can cause and provide a foundation for moving forward.

FAQs about Utah Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Claims

Here are answers to some common questions we receive about Stevens-Johnson Syndrome legal claims.

Do I need the original prescription bottle to file a lawsuit?

While having the original bottle can be helpful, it is not always necessary. Pharmacy records, medical charts, and doctor’s notes can all serve as powerful evidence to establish which medication you were taking and when you started it. An attorney can help you gather this critical documentation.

Can I file a claim if the drug was a generic version?

Yes, you may still have a valid claim even if you took a generic version of a drug. The legal rules surrounding lawsuits against generic drug manufacturers can be complex, but it does not prevent you from seeking accountability. A lawyer familiar with SJS litigation can assess the specifics of your situation.

How much does it cost to hire a Utah Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer?

Most product liability lawyers, including Greg Jones Law, handle SJS cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay any upfront fees. The law firm only receives a fee if they successfully obtain a settlement or verdict in your favor. This fee is a percentage of the total amount recovered.

Will my SJS case have to go to court?

Many SJS cases are resolved through a settlement with the drug manufacturer’s insurance company before ever going to trial. However, if the company refuses to offer a fair settlement that fully accounts for your damages, your legal team must be prepared to present your case to a judge and jury.

Utah's Premier Burn Treatment Facilities

Utah boasts several reputable facilities specializing in treating severe skin conditions like SJS. These centers are equipped with the expertise and technology necessary to provide high-quality care:

These institutions play a crucial role in the acute and rehabilitative phases of SJS treatment, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care tailored to their specific needs.

The complexities of SJS include medical challenges and potential legal issues, especially when negligence is suspected. Greg Jones Law is dedicated to supporting individuals affected by SJS, providing skilled legal counsel and representation to ensure patients receive the compensation and justice they deserve. Our firm offers free consultations to help you understand your legal rights and options.

For those facing SJS in Utah, leveraging the specialized medical treatments available and the legal resources provided by experienced professionals like Greg Jones is essential. These resources ensure comprehensive care and support throughout the journey of recovery and legal resolution.

SJS Resources

Contact a Trusted Utah Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Attorney Today

Attorney, Greg Jones

If you or a family member has been diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome after taking a medication, you deserve answers and accountability. At Greg Jones Law, we stand ready to fight for you. We take on large corporations and their insurance companies to demand the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve. You shouldn't have to carry this burden without a strong advocate in your corner.

Contact us today at (910) 251-2240 or through our online form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us review the details of your case and explain how we can help you on the path to recovery.