When Toxic Exposure Harms You, We Fight Back
We pursue claims for individuals and families harmed by exposure to toxic chemicals, contaminated water, and hazardous materials released through alleged corporate negligence.
Toxic tort cases involve serious harm caused by exposure to dangerous chemicals, pollutants, and hazardous substances. Trujillo & Winnick LLP evaluates these complex cases case by case. Some matters may be handled on a contingency-fee basis, depending on the case type, facts, conflicts review, and written engagement agreement. Fee arrangements, including responsibility for costs, are confirmed in a written engagement agreement before representation begins. Whether a client is responsible for costs advanced by the firm if there is no recovery is addressed in the written fee agreement.
Common Toxic Tort Claims
- Contaminated drinking water
- Industrial chemical exposure
- Pesticide and herbicide contamination
- Benzene and petrochemical exposure
- Lead paint and soil contamination
What We Investigate
Trujillo & Winnick LLP investigates the alleged source of exposure, the pathway by which substances reached affected individuals or properties, and the link between exposure and claimed harm. Work in this area involves industrial releases, refinery incidents, smoke, soot, fumes, chemical spills, and contaminated air, water, or soil. We evaluate responsible operators, manufacturers, and property owners and the full range of available legal remedies, including negligence, nuisance, trespass, strict liability, and violations of California safety and environmental regulations.
Each matter is evaluated on its specific facts. Past results in other cases do not guarantee an outcome in any particular matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a toxic tort case?
A toxic tort case involves a claim that exposure to a hazardous substance — such as chemicals, industrial emissions, contaminated water, or other toxic materials — caused harm to a person's health or property. These cases often involve industrial facilities, manufacturing operations, or environmental contamination.
What do I need to prove in a toxic tort case?
Toxic tort cases generally require establishing that you were exposed to a hazardous substance, that the defendant was responsible for that exposure, and that the exposure caused your claimed harm. Expert testimony on exposure levels and causation is typically required.
Can a group of affected residents bring a case together?
Yes. When multiple people in the same area suffer similar harm from the same source, their claims may be pursued as a class action or through coordinated litigation. This approach can make complex cases more practical for individual claimants.
How long do I have to file a toxic tort claim?
Statutes of limitations for toxic tort claims vary by claim type and jurisdiction. In California, the limitations period may be tolled until you knew or reasonably should have known of your injury and its cause. Given the complexity of these deadlines, you should consult an attorney as soon as possible.
Are toxic tort cases handled on contingency?
The firm evaluates toxic tort matters case by case. Some matters may be handled on a contingency-fee basis, depending on the case type, facts, conflicts review, and written engagement agreement. Fee arrangements, including responsibility for costs, are confirmed in a written engagement agreement before representation begins. Whether a client is responsible for costs advanced by the firm if there is no recovery is addressed in the written fee agreement.