Barry Co-Authors Case Law Compendium for DRI Product Liability Conference
Swanson, Martin & Bell, LLP is pleased to announce that Caitlin M. Barry, an associate in the firm’s Product Liability Practice, co-authored the Case Law Compendium for the Defense Research Institute's (DRI) Product Liability Conference held February 19-21, 2025 in Miami, Florida.
Barry contributed to the Seventh Circuit Product Liability Case Law Update, analyzing several cases that impact manufacturers and defense attorneys nationwide. Her coverage includes:
- Voluntary recalls and refund programs and their potential impact on establishing “injury in fact.”
- The increasing scrutiny of expert testimony, particularly how unreliable methodologies can lead to summary judgment.
- Insights into the Tesla “Phantom Braking” class action, along with other emerging product liability trends.
Barry’s role in this update reflects Swanson, Martin & Bell’s leadership in product liability defense and commitment to providing clients with cutting-edge legal insights and strategies. The firm has built a national reputation for successfully defending manufacturers and remains actively engaged in shaping the legal landscape through litigation, professional development and thought leadership.
About DRI Product Liability Conference
The DRI Product Liability Conference is a premier event for attorneys, in-house counsel, and industry professionals navigating product liability litigation. As the largest international membership organization for civil defense attorneys, DRI offers resources, networking opportunities, and access to 29 substantive law committees focused on best practices in litigation.
About Caitlin Barry
Barry concentrates her practice on defending manufacturers in high-exposure product liability, class action, medical malpractice and general tort litigation. She represents automotive, material handling, and consumer product manufacturers, advising clients on risk management and litigation strategies. Barry currently serves as Chair of Swanson, Martin & Bell, LLP’s Product Liability and Fire & Explosion Practice Groups. A recognized leader in the defense bar, Barry was recently reelected to the DRI Young Lawyers Steering Committee and appointed to the Young Lawyer Council for the 2024-2025 term, further reinforcing her active role in the industry. For the second consecutive year, she was recognized as an Illinois Super Lawyers – Rising Star, an honor awarded to only 2.5% of attorneys in Illinois under the age of 40 or with 10 years or less of practice, and was also named Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch. Learn more about Caitlin and her practice here.
