Record-Breaking Corporate Jury Verdicts Signal Unprecedented Legal Risks

Marathon Strategies’ annual analysis of corporate litigation reveals a dramatic surge in “nuclear verdicts” — jury awards of $10 million or more — that should serve as a wake-up call for every company leader, legal advisor, and communications professional.

In 2024 alone, 135 lawsuits resulted in a nuclear verdict, the highest amount on record.

These verdicts were ordered across the country by juries in 34 states and 77 courts.

Eye-Popping Sums

These verdicts are not only rising in number, but also in size and scope. “Thermonuclear verdicts” – those greater than $100 million – nearly doubled in 2024.

No Company Is Immune

These cases are not limited to a single region or sector: last year, 55 industries were impacted.

A Banner Year

These cases have skyrocketed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, reaching an apex in 2024. Since 2020, they have increased in number (309%), overall sum (273%), and median (143%): all indications this trend is not driven by outlier cases.

Prepare for What’s Next: Download the Report

Defendants can’t afford to treat these lawsuits as isolated legal matters – the reputational and financial stakes are simply too high. 

Companies need to be thinking about how they communicate before, during, and after trial – because the court of public opinion doesn’t wait for a verdict. Whether you’re managing risk, building a defense, or preparing your next board briefing, this report gives you a critical edge. 

Breakdowns of verdicts by state and business sector to help you benchmark your exposure

Insights into what’s driving the trend – and what to expect in 2025

Spotlights on key cases and emerging patterns in litigation

Legislative analysis of recently enacted and proposed reforms