A defective product can change someone’s life without warning. Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers share responsibility for ensuring that the merchandise they put on the market is safe. When their products fail, people can suffer serious harm. If you were injured by an unsafe product, a Richmond product liability lawyer at MichieHamlett can use a trial-tested approach to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Our personal injury attorneys have represented injured individuals against powerful corporate defendants for decades, and our results reflect that commitment. With more than 75 years of experience, we understand the demands these cases can place on victims and their families, and we are prepared to guide you through the challenges you are facing.

Understanding Product Liability Law

Product liability claims fall under three recognized theories: design defects, manufacturing defects, and failure to warn. A design defect occurs when the product’s fundamental blueprint creates an unreasonable risk, regardless of how carefully the manufacturer assembled it. A manufacturing defect arises when a specific unit deviates from its intended design during production, and a failure-to-warn claim applies when a manufacturer knew of a risk but failed to adequately inform consumers.

When evaluating product liability injuries in Richmond, our attorneys will begin by determining which of these theories applies to the facts of the claim. Unlike many states, Virginia does not recognize strict liability for defective products. Instead, claims proceed under negligence or breach of implied warranty. 

Under Virginia Code § 8.01-243, you must file personal injury actions, including product liability claims, within two years of the date the injury occurred. Acting promptly can preserve critical evidence and protect your right to recover compensation.

What Compensation May Be Available After a Defective Product Injury?

Our Richmond attorneys can help you determine the full value of your defective merchandise claim. Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Future treatment costs
  • Lost income
  • Diminished earning capacity
  • Pain, suffering, and lasting physical limitations 

Large manufacturers and their insurers employ experienced defense teams who work to dispute causation, minimize the impact of injuries, or argue that the consumer misused the product. Our firm has opposed some of the country’s largest corporations and achieved meaningful outcomes. 

Our Approach to Product Liability Litigation

When our Richmond lawyers take on a product liability case, we build a strong foundation from the beginning. We will preserve physical evidence, consult engineering and medical experts, and develop a thorough command of the technical details before entering any courtroom or negotiation.

Partner Bryan Slaughter brings more than 20 years of experience and is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, an honor extended by invitation only to attorneys who have demonstrated mastery of advocacy. Partner Tony Russell has tried more than 100 jury trials and has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America® for Product Liability Litigation – Plaintiffs. Together, they lead a team prepared to take on well-resourced defendants.

Contact a Richmond Defective Merchandise Attorney Today

When a defective product injures you, you do not have to feel uncertain about your next steps. A Richmond product liability lawyer at MichieHamlett will review your case, explain your options, and pursue accountability and compensation for your losses. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.