California families with premature infants trusted major formula manufacturers to provide safe nutrition for their vulnerable newborns. Tragically, cow’s milk-based formulas such as Similac and Enfamil have been linked to a devastating intestinal disease called Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC). Despite decades of scientific evidence showing the increased risks, Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson failed to warn parents or medical providers about these potentially fatal dangers.
Walter Clark Legal Group is committed to fighting for California families whose premature infants have suffered from NEC after consuming these formulas. Our baby formula attorneys understand the tremendous physical, emotional, and financial burden this condition places on families. If your premature baby was diagnosed with NEC after being fed Similac or Enfamil products, you may be entitled to significant compensation.
Complete our quick online case evaluation to determine if you qualify for a baby formula lawsuit.
What Is Necrotizing Enterocolitis and Why Is It Dangerous?
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating intestinal disease that primarily strikes premature infants. This serious condition causes inflammation that damages intestinal tissue, leading to tissue death as bacteria invade the intestinal wall. In severe cases, perforations develop in the intestine, allowing bacteria to escape into the abdomen and bloodstream, causing life-threatening infections.
The consequences of NEC are often catastrophic. Medical research shows mortality rates of 15-40% among affected infants, with the highest rates among the smallest and most premature babies. Survivors frequently face significant long-term health challenges including short bowel syndrome, nutritional deficiencies, growth failure, and neurodevelopmental delays. Many require multiple surgeries, extended hospitalizations, and lifelong medical care.
Scientific studies have consistently demonstrated that premature infants fed cow’s milk-based formulas face a substantially higher risk of developing NEC compared to those fed human breast milk. Research published in leading medical journals shows that formula-fed premature infants are 6-10 times more likely to develop this dangerous condition.
Despite compelling scientific evidence available since the 1990s, formula manufacturers continued marketing their products for premature infants without providing adequate warnings about NEC risks. The American Academy of Pediatrics and other medical organizations now recommend human milk over formula for premature infants specifically because of the NEC risk associated with cow’s milk formulas.
Legal Basis for Filing a Claim
Baby formula lawsuits against manufacturers like Abbott and Mead Johnson are grounded in well-established product liability principles. Walter Clark Legal Group has identified multiple legal theories that hold these companies accountable for the harm caused to vulnerable premature infants.
Manufacturers concealed NEC risks despite knowing dangers for premature infants.
Formulas were inherently dangerous for premature babies yet marketed for them.
Companies promoted products as safe despite evidence of severe risks.
Manufacturers could be liable for injuries from products without adequate warnings.
Who Qualifies to File a Baby Formula Lawsuit?
Parents or guardians may qualify to file a baby formula lawsuit if:
- Your child was born prematurely (before 37 weeks gestation)
- Your premature infant was fed Similac or Enfamil formula or fortifier in the hospital or at home
- Your child was diagnosed with Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) within 8 weeks of consuming the formula
- The NEC diagnosis occurred after 2005
- Your child suffered complications such as intestinal perforation, surgery, sepsis, or long-term health issues
The severity of your child’s condition significantly impacts potential compensation. Cases involving infant death, emergency surgeries, or permanent disabilities typically result in higher settlements. Walter Clark Legal Group carefully evaluates each case based on medical documentation and the long-term impact on your child and family.
Important medical records for your case include documentation of your child’s premature birth, the specific formula products administered, NEC diagnosis, surgical procedures, hospital stays, and ongoing treatments. These records help our California baby formula lawsuit attorneys establish the connection between the formula and your child’s condition.
Walter Clark Legal Group understands the emotional and financial strain families face when dealing with a child’s serious medical condition. Our compassionate approach ensures you receive the support and guidance needed throughout the legal process.
The Impact of NEC on Infants and Families
Necrotizing Enterocolitis devastates not only the affected infant but the entire family. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of this condition can be overwhelming, especially when families learn it might have been prevented if formula manufacturers had provided proper warnings.
Infants often require emergency surgery, extended NICU stays, and multiple procedures.
Survivors face intestinal issues, nutritional challenges, and developmental delays.
Families encounter massive medical bills, specialized care costs, and lost income.
Parents experience significant trauma, grief, and anxiety throughout treatment.
Why Choose Walter Clark Legal Group for Your Baby Formula Lawsuit
For over 30 years, Walter Clark Legal Group has been fighting for California families harmed by negligent corporations. Our experienced team has the knowledge, resources, and determination to stand up to large formula manufacturers and secure the compensation your family deserves.
Our baby formula attorneys provide:
- In-depth understanding of the medical and scientific aspects of NEC cases
- Extensive experience handling complex product liability litigation
- A compassionate approach that recognizes the trauma your family has endured
- A proven track record of securing substantial settlements for injured clients
- A commitment to holding negligent companies accountable for their actions
When you work with Walter Clark Legal Group, you’ll receive personalized attention from attorneys who genuinely care about your family’s well-being. We handle all aspects of your case, from gathering medical records to negotiating with corporate defendants, allowing you to focus on your child’s health and recovery.
The Baby Formula Lawsuit Process
Walter Clark Legal Group makes pursuing justice straightforward for families already dealing with the challenges of caring for an injured child. Our team handles every aspect of your case while keeping you informed throughout the process.
Our team evaluates your situation to determine if you have a qualifying claim.
We collect medical records and scientific evidence supporting your case.
Our attorneys handle all documentation and court submissions professionally.
We pursue maximum damages through settlement negotiations or trial.
Get Your Instant Case Evaluation
Don’t delay in finding out if your family qualifies for compensation in a baby formula lawsuit. Time restrictions limit how long you have to file a claim, and prompt action strengthens your case. Our simple online case evaluation will quickly determine if you meet the criteria to pursue justice for your child. Take the first step toward holding formula manufacturers accountable and securing the financial support your family needs for ongoing medical care and future challenges.