R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. v. Robinson

This case concerns the boundaries of proper closing argument. Plaintiffs counsel crossed those boundaries repeatedly, flagrantly, and often in defiance of the trial court’s admonishments. The depth and pervasiveness of these improper arguments compel reversal of this case for new trial.1

I

Cynthia Robinson, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Michael Johnson, Sr., brought action against R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company (“Reynolds”), seeking damages on the ground that Johnson’s death was the result of lung cancer caused by addiction to cigarettes manufactured and distributed by Reynolds.…