Reuters reports the jury in the New Jersey Vioxx trial has found in favor of Merck, after only one day of deliberations. This is extremely disappointing to people with Vioxx claims against Merck, and to their lawyers.
New Jersey is home to Merck, and each member of the jury probably knows someone who works for Merck. Perhaps the concern that a plaintiff verdict would inflict financial damage to New Jersey played a part in the jury’s decisions. I’m sure more details will be coming soon.