If you or a loved one in North Carolina has experienced serious health issues such as Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), or Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) after receiving the Gardasil HPV vaccine, you may have legal options for pursuing compensation in a North Carolina Gardasil lawsuit.
At Riddle & Riddle injury lawyers, we remain committed to advocating for North Carolinians who believe they have been harmed by unsafe pharmaceutical drugs. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and determine the best course of action for your case.
For a free, no-obligation case review, please contact our team or call 1-800-525-7111. If you qualify for a Gardasil lawsuit and decide to hire us, there are no upfront costs and we don’t get paid unless you do.
We are a North Carolina law firm committed to justice for our neighbors. Please call 1-800-525-7111 today for a free case evaluation.
We are committed to seeking maximum compensation for our clients.
Understanding Gardasil Lawsuits and Recent Developments
Gardasil, developed by Merck, is a vaccine intended to protect against certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause cervical and other cancers. While Gardasil has been effective in reducing HPV infections, concerns have arisen regarding its potential side effects. Health problems potentially linked to Gardasil include:
- Autoimmune Disorders, such as:
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
- Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)
- Neurological Issues, including chronic headaches, seizures, and nervous system complications
- Chronic Pain Conditions, such as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
These adverse effects have led to numerous lawsuits against Merck, alleging that the company overstated the vaccine's benefits, downplayed its risks, and failed to provide adequate warnings about potential adverse effects. Merck has strongly denied these claims.
As of early 2025, more than 200 Gardasil lawsuits had been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in North Carolina. However, a recent ruling by the presiding judge, U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell, dismissed the majority of claims in the federal MDL, stating that plaintiffs had not provided sufficient evidence to require additional warnings on the vaccine’s labeling.
JUly 2025 Update
The Gardasil HPV vaccine lawsuits continue to progress in federal multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 3036), which is centralized in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina under Judge Robert J. Conrad, Jr. As of July 2025, the number of pending cases has grown to over 160, with additional claims expected as awareness increases about alleged injuries associated with the vaccine.
Plaintiffs allege that Gardasil, developed by Merck & Co., caused serious and debilitating side effects such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), autoimmune disorders, and chronic fatigue, among others. The lawsuits claim Merck failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about these risks and overstated the safety and efficacy of the vaccine in its marketing.
Key updates from the MDL include:
- Bellwether selection is underway: The parties are working with the court to identify a group of representative cases for early trials. These bellwether cases will help determine how juries might respond to the evidence presented.
- Discovery is progressing: Both sides are exchanging documents, deposing expert witnesses, and gathering data to support or refute claims related to vaccine safety, testing protocols, and regulatory communications.
- Motion practice intensifies: Defendants have filed motions to dismiss certain claims, arguing that the plaintiffs' allegations do not meet legal standards. The court has yet to rule on key motions that could shape the scope of the litigation moving forward.
No settlements have been announced, and Merck continues to deny any wrongdoing. However, the upcoming bellwether trials — anticipated to begin in late 2025 or early 2026 — could serve as a turning point in the litigation and potentially lead to broader resolution discussions.
Families and individuals who believe they were harmed by the Gardasil vaccine still have time to explore legal options as the MDL remains open to new filings.
Can the Judge’s Ruling Be Appealed?
Yes, plaintiffs have the right to appeal Judge Bell’s ruling. If they choose to do so, the appeal would likely be heard by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, which oversees federal cases in North Carolina. Recently, several plaintiffs announced plans to appeal, however it remains to be seen how this process will play out.
While this ruling significantly impacts cases within the MDL, there may still be legal avenues for those who have suffered serious health issues after receiving the Gardasil vaccine.
If you believe you or a loved one in North Carolina has suffered a qualifying health problem potentially linked to the Gardasil vaccine, please call 1-800-525-7111 today for a free case review.
Our North Carolina Gardasil lawyers are standing by.
Do You Qualify for a Gardasil Lawsuit?
You may still be eligible to file a Gardasil lawsuit in North Carolina if:
- You or a loved one received the Gardasil vaccine and subsequently developed a qualifying health condition:
- An autoimmune disorder (GBS, POTS, POI)
- A neurological condition
- A chronic pain condition
- There is a documented link between your Gardasil vaccination and the onset of these health conditions.
- You have medical records confirming your diagnosis.
If you meet these criteria, contact us to discuss your potential options. Call 1-800-525-7111 for a free case review.
Why Choose Riddle & Riddle?
As a North Carolina-based law firm, we take pride in representing our community. We understand how to navigate North Carolina’s legal system, and we fight aggressively for those who have been harmed by dangerous products.
Why North Carolinians Trust Us
- Local knowledge and experience – This is our home, and we understand the courts, laws, and juries in North Carolina.
- Personalized attention – We strive to treat clients like family.
- Proven results – We have recovered millions for victims of negligence, including over $850 million recovered for clients since 2000 alone (see disclaimer below).
Recognitions and Awards
Led by attorney and managing partner Gene Riddle and his daughter, attorney and partner Alex Riddle, our team is proud to be recognized by many prestigious memberships and awards (see disclaimer below), including:
- Million Dollar Advocates Forum and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- The National Trial Lawyers Top 100
- National Association of Distinguished Counsel
- Super Lawyers and Super Lawyers Rising Stars
- AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell
- The Litigator Award
We’re also proud of the way our valued clients talk about their experience with our attorneys and staff:
“It was nice to see Riddle & Riddle put me and my needs first.” — R.C.
Our commitment to treating clients like family is echoed in our selection by NC Lawyers Weekly as a “Best Family-Run Law Firm” in 2025.
Call us today at 1-800-525-7111 for a free case review. Remember, there are no attorney fees unless we win your case — and you receive compensation.
Steps to Take If You Believe You Qualify
- Gather Documentation:
- Medical records confirming your diagnosis.
- Proof of your Gardasil vaccination (dates and dosage information).
- Consult with Our Attorneys:
- Contact Riddle & Riddle at 1-800-525-7111 for a free case evaluation.
- Discuss your health history and any side effects you experienced post-vaccination.
- Take Legal Action:
- If eligible and you decide to hire us, our attorneys will guide you through filing a lawsuit in North Carolina.
- We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win compensation for you.
For a free case review, call 1-800-525-7111 today.
The Legal Process for a Gardasil Lawsuit
If you qualify for a Gardasil lawsuit and decide to hire us to represent you, our legal team will guide you through the following steps:
- Case Evaluation – A free consultation to assess your eligibility.
- Investigation and Documentation – Collecting necessary medical and vaccine records.
- Filing the Lawsuit – Taking legal action against the manufacturer and any other potentially liable parties.
- Negotiation and Settlement Talks – Working to secure a fair settlement. Remember, there are no guarantees and the outcome of any case depends on the unique facts and circumstances in that case.
- Trial, If Necessary – If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we are prepared to help take your case to trial to pursue maximum compensation for you.
Act Now to Protect Your Rights
Gardasil lawsuits are subject to strict time limits (statutes of limitations), and delaying action could impact your ability to receive compensation. Although the recent ruling has affected the MDL, state-level lawsuits and appeals may still provide legal pathways for those harmed by the vaccine — and a successful appeal of the MDL judge’s dismissal may still happen.
If you or a loved one has experienced serious health issues after receiving the Gardasil vaccine, call 1-800-525-7111 today for a free, no-obligation case review.
When Justice Counts™, count on the North Carolina Gardasil lawyers at Riddle & Riddle. Call 1-800-525-7111 today and let’s see how we can help.