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PWHD is pleased to announce that Governor Northam signed HB 2139 into law. This bill amends Virginia Code § 8.01-249 by providing a more reasonable time limit for Virginians suffering from latent diseases caused by toxic substances and defective products to bring a claim. Delegate Elizabeth Guzman was the Chief Patron of this bill, which will go into effect on July 1, 2021.  Governor Northam Signs LandMark Product Liability Bill Into Law Read More Products Liability Home Asbestos Benzene Exposure Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit CPAP Machines Hernia Mesh Medical Devices Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease Roundup Sunscreen and Benzene Talc Zantac Contact Us PWHD is pleased to announce that Governor Northam signed HB 2139 into law. This bill amends Virginia Code § 8.01-249 by providing a more reasonable time limit for Virginians suffering from latent diseases caused by toxic substances and defective products to bring a claim. Delegate Elizabeth Guzman was the Chief Patron of this bill, which will go into effect on July 1, 2021. Under prior law, many victims' claims were time barred before they even knew they were injured. This bill corrects this inequity by providing that the statute of limitation in a case involving a latent disease or injury resulting from exposure to a substance or the use of a product does not start to run until the injured person knew or should have known of the injury and its causal-connection to an injury-causing substance or product. PWHD attorneys have worked hard for many years to promote this change to Virginia law. During the 2021 session, PWHD products liability partner, Robert R. Hatten, testified in the House Courts of Justice and Senate Judiciary Committees about the need for this change, and the inherent injustice that existed for those suffering from latent diseases in Virginia under existing law. This bill was supported by a 2020 Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals decision, which applied Virginia’s statute of limitations to dismiss a latent disease claim filed by a coal miner against the manufacturer of a defective respirator. The court’s opinion characterized the current Virginia statute of limitations for latent disease claims as tantamount to a “get out of jail free card” for manufacturers of dangerous products because the time limit on these claims expires before the victim is even diagnosed with the disease, much less is aware of the cause of that disease. See Adams v. American Optical Corp., 979 F.3d 248 (2020). As the court observed, Virginia’s law is manifestly unfair because an individual with a latent disease or injury will never get his or her day in court. This inherent inequity was based upon the 1981 Virginia Supreme Court decision Locke v. Johns-Manville Corp., 221 Va. 951, 275 S.E.2d 900, which held that the statute of limitations for latent disease claims “do[es] not accrue when the diagnosis is first made or when symptoms first occur.” Instead, the court held, the statute of limitations begins to run when any "injury, however slight" first occurs in the body, a time that “expert medical testimony may demonstrate to have occurred weeks, months, or even years before the onset of symptoms.” The Court concluded that “the adoption of a discovery rule which triggers the running of the statute only when the injury is discovered or should have been discovered in the exercise of reasonable diligence must be accomplished by the General Assembly.” Following Locke, in 1985, Robert R. Hatten spearheaded the passage of statutes by the Virginia General Assembly to change the time limit for filing asbestos claims, so that the time limit did not begin to run until an individual received a diagnosis of an asbestos-related disease from his or her physician. Unfortunately, the change regarding asbestos-related diseases did not address other toxic and carcinogenic substances. The new amendment to Virginia Code § 8.01-249 signed into law by Governor Northam corrects this inequity and brings Virginia law in line with the majority of other states by stating that the statute of limitation does not start to run the injured person knows or should know of the injury and its causal-connection to an injury-causing substance or product. The attorneys at PWHD bring over 70 years of litigation experience to a variety of complex matters. PWHD is a local firm with a national reputation. Starting as a pioneer and champion of the rights of asbestos victims, PWHD’s product liability practice has grown over time to handle a wide variety of defective product lawsuits, including breast implants, hernia mesh, Zantac, Roundup®, Biocell, Benzene, and talc. If you have been injured as a result of a defective product design, manufacturing defect, or a failure to warn of the hazards of a product, please contact us for a free case evaluation . We can help. Products Liability Attorneys Robert R. Hatten Contact PWHD Hugh B. McCormick, III. Jean nette M. Dodson-O'Connell Daniel R. O. Long Geoffr ey R. Grau

PWHD is honored to share that Robert R. Hatten, Esq. has been recognized by the Christopher Newport University Board of Visitors for his continued dedication to the University and selfless service as its Rector. CNU Rector Robert R. Hatten, Esq. Recognition "In grateful appreciation of your service as Rector to the Board of Visitors of Christopher Newport University" 2018 - 2022 In Appreciation PWHD is honored to share that Robert R. Hatten, Esq. has been recognized by the Christopher Newport University Board of Visitors for his continued dedication to the University and selfless service as its Rector.

What is Talc? Like asbestos, talc is a rock that is mined from the ground. Because talc and asbestos are similar minerals, asbestos typically is found intermingled with talc. Talc is mined through blasting and open pit mining, and it is impossible to separate asbestos fibers from talc during the mining process or during the subsequent refining process... PRODUCTS LIABILITY LITIGATION Talc Read More Products Liability Home Asbestos Benzene Exposure Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit CPAP Machines Hernia Mesh Medical Devices Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease Roundup Sunscreen and Benzene Zantac Contact Us Talcum powder (Talc) has been used for decades in a wide variety of consumer products. Because these consumer products were part of the cosmetic and fragrance industry, they were largely outside of the regulatory authority of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Key companies using talc in consumer products include Johnson & Johnson, Colgate Palmolive, Chanel, Claire, and Beauty plus, among others. What is Talc? Like asbestos, talc is a rock that is mined from the ground. Because talc and asbestos are similar minerals, asbestos typically is found intermingled with talc. Talc is mined through blasting and open pit mining, and it is impossible to separate asbestos fibers from talc during the mining process or during the subsequent refining process. Nevertheless, the cosmetic and fragrance industry lobbied hard to avoid FDA regulation and to convince the FDA that there was no asbestos contamination in cosmetic talc. We now know that the cosmetic industry relied on tests of talc that did not have the sensitivity to find asbestos and that talc products have been contaminated with asbestos for decades. There is no safe level for asbestos. The asbestos contamination in talc has been proven to cause mesothelioma and cancers of the reproductive organs, such as ovarian cancer. If you have mesothelioma, ovarian cancer, or another cancer of the reproductive organs, and you routinely used a talc product throughout your life, contact us . We can help. Asbestos Litigation Attorneys Robert R. Hatten Contact PWHD Hugh B. McCormick, III. Geoffr ey R. Grau Adam M. Hawks

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer which develops in the mesothelium, the protective lining that covers many of the body's internal organs. There are four main types of mesothelioma: pleural mesothelioma which occurs in the lining around the lungs; peritoneal mesothelioma, which occurs in the lining around the stomach and abdomen; pericardial mesothelioma, which occurs in the lining around the heart; and mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis, which occurs in the lining around the testes. ASBESTOS LITIGATION What Is Mesothelioma? Read More Asbestos Exposure What is Asbestos? What did Companies Know? Occupations at Risk Ship Builders, and Navy Veterans Asbestos Disease Claims Contact Us What is Mesothelioma ? Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer which develops in the mesothelium, the protective lining that covers many of the body's internal organs. There are four main types of mesothelioma: pleural mesothelioma which occurs in the lining around the lungs; peritoneal mesothelioma, which occurs in the lining around the stomach and abdomen; pericardial mesothelioma, which occurs in the lining around the heart; and mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis, which occurs in the lining around the testes. All four types are caused by asbestos exposure. By far the most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma, shown below: The Symptoms of Mesothelioma The initial symptoms associated with mesothelioma are usually pain in the back, chest or abdomen as well as fatigue and loss of weight. This is usually followed by an unexplained and sudden shortness of breath caused by a buildup of fluid (called an "effusion") between the mesothelial lining and the organ it covers. Malignant mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose. A definitive diagnosis typically often may only be made after a biopsy is performed to obtain a tissue sample. Because malignant mesothelioma is a rare disease, many hospitals and physicians do not have a great deal of experience with this disease and may have difficulty making the diagnosis. If you have any of the foregoing symptoms and have a history of asbestos exposure, contact your physician as soon as possible. We have forty years of experience prosecuting mesothelioma cases. If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos related disease like Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, or Asbestosis, call us at 757-223-4545 for a free consultation. You can also fill out our contact form . Robert R. Hatten Contact PWHD Hugh B. McCormick, III. Geoffr ey R. Grau Adam M. Hawks Asbestos Litigation Attorneys

PWHD is excited to announce that 5 of our attorneys have been named to the 2022 Super Lawyers List. Only the top 5% of attorneys in each state are selected to the Super Lawyers List, which evaluates lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement.  Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. 2023 Best Lawyers Honorees According to Best Lawyers, "Only the top 5.3% of all practicing lawyers in the U.S. were selected by their peers for inclusion in the 29th edition of The Best Lawyers in America." Donald N. Patten Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Plaintiffs Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs Robert R. Hatten 2023 "Lawyer of the Year" for Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs in Norfolk Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Plaintiffs Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs Hugh B. McCormick, III Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Plaintiffs Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs James H. Shoemaker, Jr. Employment Law - Individuals Litigation - Labor and Employment

Hernias can occur in a variety of ways, but most occur when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. This often results in a bulge in the groin or stomach region that aches and burns. Depending on where the hernia occurs, it may also cause swelling of the testicles, heartburn, and vomiting. The primary concern with a hernia is small intestine strangulation. This occurs when the hernia blocks blood supply to the small intestines. PRODUCTS LIABILITY LITIGATION Hernia Mesh Read More Products Liability Home Asbestos Benzene Exposure Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit CPAP Machines Medical Devices Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease Roundup Sunscreen and Benzene Talc Zantac Contact Us What Is A Hernia? Hernias can occur in a variety of ways, but most occur when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. This often results in a bulge in the groin or stomach region that aches and burns. Depending on where the hernia occurs, it may also cause swelling of the testicles, heartburn, and vomiting. The primary concern with a hernia is small intestine strangulation. This occurs wh en the hernia blocks blood supply to the small intestines. Hernias typically require either open or laparoscopic surgery and may also require the use of hernia mesh. Hernia mesh is used to repair both ventral and inguinal hernias. What Are Hernia Mesh Products? There are a wide variety of hernia mesh produc ts. Hernia meshes are loose, flexible meshes that are used during hernia surgery to support weakened or damaged tissue in order to aid in the healing process and prevent future hernias. Some patients who had a hernia mesh implant to treat a hernia have experienced complications including infections, adhesions, hernia recurrence, additional corrective surgery hernia recurrence, bowel perforation or obstruction, or other medical conditions. There are a variety of hernia mesh products still in use today that have not been recalled by the FDA. PWHD’s attorneys are currently investigating hernia mesh claims related to the following products. Polypropylene Hernia Mesh Products: PHYSIOMESH Physiomesh Flexible Composite Mesh is a type of polypropylene hernia mesh made and released by Johnson & Johnson’s subsidiary, Ethicon, in October 2010. Physiomesh is intended for use in laparoscopic surgery and is designed to reinforce the abdominal wall to prevent future hernias from occurring. In April 2010, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted 510(k) clearance to Physiomesh, meaning Physiomesh was not required to undergo FDA review or clinical trials to evaluate its safety before it was placed on the market. Johnson & Johnson recalled its product in May 2016, after unpublished studies demonstrated that Physiomesh had a higher hernia recurrence and reoperation rate than the average rates of other meshes on the market. The FDA has analyzed potential hernia repair surgery complications in situations where hernia mesh was used, and this review found that the most common adverse effects include pain, infection, hernia recurrence, adhesion, and bowel obstruction. Other potential complications include mesh migration and mesh shrinkage. C.R. BARD HERNIA MESH C.R.Bard is the manufacturer of a variety of hernia mesh products, including SepraMesh, Ventralex, Bard 3D Max, Kugel, Kugel Composix Mesh, PerFix Plug, Ventrio, Ventrio ST, Composix E/X Mesh, Visilex, Spermatix and Marlex. C.R. Bard meshes are made of a material called Marlex HGX-030-01, which is a polypropylene resin. Extensive scientific research shows that polypropylene degrades in the human body. When the material degrades, it can break off inside the body resulting in injuries and complications. PWHD is currently investigating claims for individuals who have undergone hernia surgery involving Physiomesh, C.R. Bard, and other hernia meshes, and who later experienced medical complications. If you or a loved one have undergone hernia surgery using a hernia mesh product and have experienced medical complications, our products liability attorneys would like to talk to you. You can discuss your potential claim with us at no cost by calling us today at 757-223-4500 or filling out our online contact form . Products Liability Attorneys Contact PWHD Hugh B. McCormick, III.

PWHD is honored to share that Robert R. Hatten, Esq. has been recognized by the Martindale-Hubbell for 30 years of being rated as AV Preeminent. "The pinnacle of professional excellence earned through a strenuous Peer Review Rating process that is managed and monitored by the world's most trusted legal resource." Robert R. Hatten, Esq. Awarded Martindale-Hubbell A V Preeminent For Thirty Years "Highest Possible Peer Review Rating In Legal Ability & Ethical Standards " 1992 - 2022 In Recognition PWHD is honored to share that Robert R. Hatten, Esq. has been recognized by the Martindale-Hubbell for 30 years of being rated as AV Preeminent. "The pinnacle of professional excellence earned through a strenuous Peer Review Rating process that is managed and monitored by the world's most trusted legal resource."

Looking for Awarding and Challenging career helping others - Contact PWHD CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Patten, Wornom, Hatten & Diamonstein (PWHD) has been serving the Hampton Roads area since 1954 with measurable success. We pride ourselves on a deep tradition of excellence, and ensuring only the highest quality of service. We understand the challenges and pressure that comes with every case. If you are looking for a fun, challenging, and rewarding team environment check out our current opportunities available. PWHD Careers Connect with us on Facebook and LinkedIn to stay informed. Facebook Email Human Resources LinkedIn Blank Page: About

Stay up to date with PWHD. Call (757) 223-4500 to speak with an attorney today. News Updates Robert R. Hatten, Esq. Awarded Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent For Thirty Years October 25, 2022 Rector Robert R. Hatten, Esq. CNU Recognition September 23, 2022 2022 Super Lawyers September 9, 2022 Best Lawyers in America (Edition 2023) August 18, 2022 PWHD Attorneys Named to CoVa Biz Magazine’s 2022 Top Lawyers in Coastal Virginia February 09, 2022 Donald N. Patten receives honorary degree of Doctor of Laws from William & Mary Law School November 19, 2021 Lung Cancer Awareness November 16, 2021 Hatten Inducted into Omicron Delta Kappa November 3, 2021 Mesothelioma Awareness Day September 26, 2021 CPAP Machines August 8, 2021 Soundscapes 2021 Golf Classic presented by PWHD June 8, 2021 Hatten Speaks at CNU Commencements for 2020 & 2021 May 26, 2021 16th Annual Food Frenzy to Benefit the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank April 1, 2021 Governor Northam Signs Landmark Product Liability Bill into Law. March 26, 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 January 27, 2021 Rector Robert R. Hatten, Esq. Statement on Black Lives Matter and Social Justice CNU Board of Visitors June 04, 2020

Geoffrey R. Grau is an associate attorney with PWHD Mr. Grau joined the firm in 2022 with a primary focus on representing asbestos victims and their families. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Grau completed a two-year post-graduate judicial clerkship with the 7th Judicial Circuit in Newport News, throughout his tenure he clerked for the Honorable Gary A. Mills, Bryant L. Sugg, Christopher R. Papile, Tyneka L.D. Flythe, Matthew W. Hoffman, Timothy S. Fisher, and C. Peter Tench. GEOFFREY R. GRAU ATTORNEY Geoffrey R. Grau is an associate attorney with Patten, Wornom, Hatten & Diamonstein, L.C. Mr. Grau joined the firm in 2022 with a primary focus on representing asbestos victims and their families. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Grau completed a two-year post-graduate judicial clerkship with the 7th Judicial Circuit in Newport News, wherein throughout his tenure he clerked for the Honorable Gary A. Mills, Bryant L. Sugg, Christopher R. Papile, Tyneka L.D. Flythe, Matthew W. Hoffman, Timothy S. Fisher, and C. Peter Tench. While attending William & Mary Law School, Mr. Grau externed for the Honorable Raymond A. Jackson, United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Virginia, as well as the City of Hampton Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. He has also served as an extern with the William & Mary Law School Virginia Coastal Policy Center and as Senior Article’s Editor with the William & Mary Environmental Law and Policy Review, having published articles in both the former and the latter. Mr. Grau readily seeks to apply the skills necessary to effectively assist his native community in Newport News and the greater Tidewater Virginia area. Email: ggrau@pwhd.com Phone: (757) 223-4555 Practice Areas: Asbestos Litigation vCard Contact Education: College of William & Mary, Marshall-Wythe School of Law – Juris Doctor Christopher Newport University – Bachelor of Arts, summa cum laude, History Admissions: Virginia State Bar Honors: Senior Articles Editor, William & Mary Environmental Law and Policy Review Member, Alpha Chi Theta Honor Society Member, Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society Associations: I’Anson Hoffman American Inn of Court Newport News Bar Association

In remembrance of Martin Luther King, Jr., the attorneys and staff at Patten, Wornom, Hatten & Diamonstein, LC, extend our sincerest gratitude for the achievements of Martin Luther King, Jr. In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr., our office will be closed on Monday, January 16th, 2023. We look forward to assisting you when our office re-opens on Tuesday, January 17th, 2023. In remembrance of Martin Luther King, Jr., the attorneys and staff at Patten, Wornom, Hatten & Diamonstein, LC, extend our sincerest gratitude for the achievements of Martin Luther King, Jr. In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr., our office will be closed on Monday, January 16th, 2023. We look forward to assisting you when our office re-opens on Tuesday, January 17th, 2023.

More than thirty percent (30%) of Americans with mesothelioma cancer were exposed to asbestos while serving in the United States Military. Many more were Naval Contractors, and Shipyard Workers, who helped build and service Navy and commercial vessels. Asbestos exposure is the only cause of Malignant Mesothelioma. If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos related disease like Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, or Asbestosis. ASBESTOS LITIGATION Ship Builders & Navy Veterans Read More Asbestos Exposure What is Asbestos? What is Mesothelioma? What did Companies Know? Occupations at Risk Asbestos Disease Claims Contact Us More than thirty percent (30%) of Americans with mesothelioma cancer were exposed to asbestos while serving in the United States Military. Many more were Naval Contractors, and Shipyard Workers, who helped build and service Navy and commercial vessels. Asbestos exposure is the only cause of Malignant Mesothelioma. If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos related disease like Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, or Asbestosis, call us at 757-223-4500 for a free consultation. You can also fill out our contact form for a free case evaluation. Armed Forces Veterans and shipyard workers who served between 1940 and 1980 have a great risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses , such as: Asbestosis Lung Cancer Mesothelioma Navy personnel and shipyard workers, such as the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company, the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Norfolk Shipbuilding and Drydock Co. (“Norshipco”), Horne Brothers Shipyard, Metro Machine, Colonna Shipyard , and others from the 1930s through the 1980s, are at a high risk for developing a disease due to asbestos exposure. Navy Ships Nearly all branches of the military and commercial vessels utilized asbestos for many purposes. More than three hundred asbestos containing products were used by the military, the 1930s through the 1980s. Every Navy and commercial ship built before the 1980s employed numerous asbestos-containing materials, putting veterans, sailors and Shipbuilders at risk. These asbestos materials were used throughout Navy and commercial vessels. Personnel who worked below deck were exposed to asbestos dust consistently. All sailors, shipbuilders, and ship repair workers aboard Navy and commercial vessels are at risk for Mesothelioma , as asbestos products were used in navigation rooms, sleeping quarters, mess halls, engine rooms, boiler rooms, pump rooms, and throughout the ships. Due to the nature of ship construction, demolition and repair work that took place at Shipyards in Virginia, shipyard workers were exposed to inhaling toxic asbestos fibers provided by a wide range of asbestos product suppliers including John Crane, Inc., Warren Pumps, IMO/DeLaval, Nash, Velan, Aurora, William Powell, Byron Jackson, Ingersoll Rand, J.R. Clarkson, Crane Co., Rockwell, Edwards, Goulds, Noland, Cleaver-Brooks, Tate Andale, Milwaukee, Gardner Denver, Kunkle, Northern, Foster Wheeler, Owens-Illinois, Owens-Corning, and Selby Battersby (SB Decking), among others. Asbestos could be found in gaskets, valves, pumps, evaporators and distillers, forced draft blowers and other fans, condensers, floor and pipe coverings, clutches and brakes, among other things. Because of the extensive use of Asbestos materials and Asbestos-containing products, Virginia Navy veterans and shipyard workers are one of the most at-risk groups for developing Malignant Mesothelioma Lung Cancer and other asbestos-related diseases. Virginia Shipyards in the Hampton Roads Region of Virginia A. Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company, Newport News, Virginia The Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company (NNS), now known as Newport news Shipbuilding (a division of Huntington Ingalls, Inc.), is location in Newport News, Virginia and has been building commercial ships since 1980, and military vesserls since 1893. Newport News Shipbuilding is the only shipbuilding company in the United States that designs, builds and refuels nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. It is also one of only two companies that designs and builds nuclear-powered submarines. Newport News Shipbuilding in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia provided construction and repair services for naval and commercial vessels of all types, and in its more than 100 years of existence, has built hundreds of commercial and naval vessels. If you worked for any of these shipyards in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia, worked aboard a ship there, or were stationed aboard a vessel built in the Newport News shipyard , you may have been exposed to asbestos and be at risk for mesothelioma cancer. B. Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, Virginia Norfolk Naval Shipyard is a Navy yard in the Hampton Roads city of Portsmouth, Virginia. It has the distinction of being the oldest U.S. Navy Shipyard and was originally founded in 1767. When its initial founder decided to remain loyal to the British during the Revolutionary War, the shipyard was seized by the Colony of Virginia. The Shipyard subsequently became a Navy yard owned by the United States government and was renamed the Norfolk Naval Shipyard after the largest city in the area. For over 200 years, Norfolk naval Shipyard has built and repaired Navy ships. During World War II, the shipyard employed nearly 43,000 workers, built nearly 30 major vessels, and repaired 6,850 U.S. and Allied ships. During the Korean War, the shipyard completed work on more than 1,250 Naval vessels, and it has continued to repair large numbers of Navy vessels since then. C. Norfolk Shipbuilding and Drydock Company NORSHIPCO is a subsidiary of United States Marine Repair, Inc. (USMR). Located in Hampton Roads city of Norfolk, Virginia, it is the largest non-nuclear ship repair, modernization, conversion and overhaul company in the United States. From its inception in 1915, NORSHIPCO served the Navy through both World Wars, Korea, and all other conflicts. If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos related disease like Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, or Asbestosis, call us at 757-223-4500 for a free consultation. You can also fill out our contact form for a free case evaluation. Asbestos Litigation Attorneys Robert R. Hatten Contact PWHD Hugh B. McCormick, III. Geoffr ey R. Grau Adam M. Hawks