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R.J. Reynolds wins defense verdict in Perez wrongful death lawsuit in New Mexico

November 2025

Client(s) R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company

Following two weeks of trial, a New Mexico jury returned a defense verdict for Jones Day client, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. The plaintiff also brought the wrongful death suit against retailer, Allsup's, and Jones Day defended Allsup's in addition to Reynolds. The claims tried to the jury were strict products liability as to Reynolds and Allsup's, and negligence and civil conspiracy as to Reynolds. At the conclusion of the trial, the plaintiff requested $15 million in compensatory damages and punitive damages. On October 27, 2025, the jury returned a defense verdict for Reynolds and Allsup's, rejecting all three causes of action and finding that the plaintiff's claims were time-barred by the statute of limitations.

Ruby Perez, as personal representative for the Estate of Juan Gonzales v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. and Allsup's Convenience Stores, Inc., No. D-101-cv-2019-02017 (N.M. 1st Jud. Dist. Ct., Santa Fe Cty.)

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