Who Qualifies for a Roundup Lawsuit?

If you’ve used Roundup and developed health issues, you may be asking, who qualifies for a Roundup lawsuit? Thousands of lawsuits have been filed against Monsanto (now owned by Bayer), alleging that the herbicide’s active ingredient, glyphosate, causes cancer and other health problems. This article explains the eligibility criteria for a Roundup lawsuit, the types of people most likely to qualify, and how to take action if you believe you have a case.

Key Eligibility Criteria for a Roundup Lawsuit

To file a Roundup lawsuit, you generally need to demonstrate the following:

1. Cancer Diagnosis

The most common health condition linked to Roundup lawsuits is non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), including subtypes like:

• Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)
• Follicular lymphoma
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
• Small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL)

Other cancers, such as multiple myeloma, leukemia, or certain lymphomas, may also qualify, depending on the case. A 2019 meta-analysis in Mutation Research/Reviews in Mutation Research found a 41% increased risk of NHL among those with high glyphosate exposure, supporting these claims.

2. Significant Roundup Exposure

You must show evidence of substantial exposure to Roundup, typically through:

• Occupational use: Regular use of Roundup as a farmer, agricultural worker, landscaper, or gardener.
• Residential use: Frequent application of Roundup in home gardening or lawn care.
• Environmental exposure: Living near areas where Roundup is heavily sprayed, leading to exposure through air, water, or soil.

The duration and frequency of exposure matter. For example, using Roundup weekly for years is more likely to qualify than occasional use.

3. Link Between Exposure and Diagnosis

Your lawsuit must establish a plausible connection between Roundup exposure and your cancer diagnosis. This often requires:

• Medical records confirming your diagnosis
• Documentation of Roundup use (e.g., purchase receipts, work records)
• Expert testimony linking glyphosate to your condition

4. Timing Within Statute of Limitations

Each state has a statute of limitations for filing lawsuits, typically ranging from 1 to 3 years from the date of diagnosis or when you reasonably discovered the link to Roundup. Consulting an attorney promptly is critical to avoid missing deadlines.

Who Is Most Likely to Qualify?

Certain groups are more likely to meet the eligibility criteria due to their exposure levels:

1. Farmers and Agricultural Workers

Those who regularly sprayed Roundup on crops or fields face high exposure risks, often without adequate protective gear. Many successful lawsuits, like the 2018 Dewayne Johnson case, involved agricultural workers diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

2. Landscapers and Gardeners

Professional landscapers or frequent home gardeners who used Roundup consistently are at risk, especially if they didn’t wear gloves, masks, or other protective equipment.

3. Residents Near Agricultural Areas

People living near farms or industrial sites where Roundup is applied may be exposed through spray drift, contaminated water, or soil. A 2017 study in Environmental Sciences Europe noted detectable glyphosate levels in nearby communities, raising concerns about environmental exposure.

4. Family Members of Roundup Users

In some cases, family members of workers who handled Roundup may qualify if they developed cancer from secondary exposure (e.g., through contaminated clothing or home environments).

Who May Not Qualify?

While many people are eligible, certain situations may not meet the criteria:

• No cancer diagnosis: Lawsuits typically require a confirmed cancer diagnosis, with non-Hodgkin lymphoma being the strongest case.
• Minimal exposure: Occasional or one-time use of Roundup is less likely to qualify compared to prolonged, regular exposure.
• Missed deadlines: If the statute of limitations has expired, you may be barred from filing.
• Unrelated health issues: Conditions not linked to glyphosate (e.g., lung cancer from smoking) are unlikely to qualify.

Steps to Take If You Think You Qualify

If you believe you meet the criteria for a Roundup lawsuit, follow these steps:

1. Collect Medical Records: Obtain documentation of your cancer diagnosis, treatment history, and any relevant tests.
2. Document Exposure: Record details of your Roundup use, including how often, how long, and whether you used protective gear. Receipts, work logs, or photos can help.
3. Consult a Roundup Attorney: An experienced lawyer can evaluate your case, gather evidence, and file your claim. They’ll also handle negotiations or court proceedings.
4. Act Quickly: Contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet filing deadlines.

Why File a Roundup Lawsuit?

Filing a lawsuit can help you seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses (e.g., chemotherapy, hospital stays)
• Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Other damages related to your diagnosis

As of 2025, Bayer has paid billions in settlements and verdicts, with many cases still pending. For example, a 2020 settlement allocated up to $10 billion for Roundup claims, showing the potential for significant compensation.

Conclusion

So, who qualifies for a Roundup lawsuit? Individuals with a cancer diagnosis (especially non-Hodgkin lymphoma), significant Roundup exposure, and a timely claim are most likely to be eligible. Farmers, landscapers, gardeners, and those living near sprayed areas are among the highest-risk groups. If you or a loved one has been affected, understanding your legal options is the first step toward justice.

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer after using Roundup, Clinton O. Middleton, Attorney at Law, is here to help. As an experienced Roundup attorney, he can guide you through the legal process to seek the compensation you deserve. Call (703) 777-9630 or fill out the form today to get started.

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