Families with premature infants across the country trusted major formula manufacturers to provide safe nutrition for their vulnerable newborns. Tragically, cow’s milk-based formulas like Similac and Enfamil have been linked to this devastating intestinal disease. Despite decades of scientific evidence showing the increased risks, Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson failed to warn parents and healthcare providers about these potentially fatal dangers.
William Mattar Law Offices is dedicated to fighting for families nationwide whose premature infants developed NEC after consuming these formulas. Our baby formula lawsuit attorneys understand the tremendous physical, emotional, and financial burden this condition places on families. If your premature baby was diagnosed with NEC after receiving Similac or Enfamil products, you may be entitled to compensation.
Complete our quick online case evaluation to see if you qualify for a baby formula lawsuit.
What Is Necrotizing Enterocolitis and Why Is It Dangerous?
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious gastrointestinal emergency that primarily affects premature and low birth weight infants. This devastating condition causes inflammation that damages the 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 can be catastrophic. Medical research shows that NEC has a mortality rate of 15-40% among affected infants. Survivors often face significant long-term health challenges, including short bowel syndrome, nutritional deficiencies, growth problems, and developmental delays. Many require emergency surgery to remove damaged portions of the intestine, leading to lifelong digestive and absorption issues.
Scientific studies have consistently demonstrated that premature infants fed cow’s milk-based formulas like Similac and Enfamil face a substantially higher risk of developing NEC compared to those fed human breast milk. Research published in prestigious medical journals has found that formula-fed premature infants are up to 10 times more likely to develop this dangerous condition.
Despite this compelling scientific evidence available since the 1990s, formula manufacturers continued marketing their products for premature infants without providing adequate warnings. The medical community, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, now recommends human milk 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 built on solid legal foundations. William Mattar Law Offices has identified multiple grounds for holding these companies legally responsible for the harm caused to premature infants nationwide.
Companies concealed NEC risks despite knowing dangers for premature infants.
Formulas inherently unsafe for premature babies yet marketed for this population.
Manufacturers promoted products as safe despite evidence of severe risks.
Companies prioritized profits over safety by ignoring evidence of serious harm.
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 these products
- The NEC diagnosis occurred after 2005
- Your child suffered complications such as intestinal perforation, surgery, sepsis, or lasting health problems
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. William Mattar Law Offices carefully evaluates each case based on medical documentation and the long-term impact on your child and family.
Important 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 baby formula lawyers establish the connection between the formula and your child’s condition.
William Mattar Law Offices 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 Baby Formula Lawsuit Process
William Mattar Law Offices makes the legal process straightforward for families already dealing with the challenges of caring for an injured child. Our team handles every aspect of your baby formula lawsuit while keeping you informed throughout the process.
Our team assesses your situation to determine if you have a qualifying claim.
We gather medical records and scientific evidence supporting your case.
Our attorneys handle all documentation and court submissions professionally.
We fight for 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.
