Mendelowitz v. Xerox Corp.
Plaintiff's decedent, a 'xerographer,' contracted mesothelioma from asbestos in Xerox copying machines, leading to his death. His wife, as administratrix, sued Xerox Corporation, alleging the cancer was caused by inhaling asbestos dust from the machines. The case primarily involved discovery disputes regarding plaintiff's requests for information on asbestos health effects and other lawsuits against Xerox. The Supreme Court initially granted Xerox's motion for a protective order, vacating or partially vacating several discovery requests. This appellate court modified the lower court's order, partially reinstating requests for lists of health claims made by Xerox employees related to asbestos exposure in copying machine manufacturing and fully reinstating requests for lists of lawsuits against Xerox concerning asbestos exposure from copying equipment, regardless of the specific model, while affirming the decision in other respects.