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The 2025 List of the Largest Civil Lawsuit Settlements in U.S. History
The landscape of civil litigation in the U.S. has seen numerous landmark settlements that have reshaped industries and highlighted corporate accountability. Here are the most significant civil lawsuit payouts in America’s history, ranked by total settlement amounts as of 2025.
1. Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement – $206 Billion
The largest civil settlement in U.S. history involves over 40 states reaching a historic deal with the major tobacco companies. This multi-billion-dollar agreement was aimed at resolving decades of lawsuits claiming that tobacco firms targeted youth and concealed health risks. The settlement set a precedent for corporate accountability and led to stricter advertising regulations for tobacco products.
2. BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill – $20.8 Billion
Following the catastrophic 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, BP faced one of the largest environmental disaster settlements ever. The massive payout included cleanup costs, environmental damages, and penalties. The spill, which is regarded as one of the worst environmental disasters in U.S. waters, resulted in widespread ecological damage and economic loss for Gulf Coast communities.
3. Bank of America (Mortgage Misrepresentation) – $16.65 Billion
During the 2008 financial crisis aftermath, Bank of America agreed to a landmark settlement for mortgage misrepresentations and questionable lending practices. This colossal sum aimed to compensate homeowners, investors, and government agencies affected by the housing bubble burst and the subsequent economic downturn.
4. Volkswagen Emissions Scandal – $14.7 Billion
The German automaker Volkswagen agreed to an unprecedented settlement after admitting to installing software to cheat emissions tests. This scandal disrupted trust in automotive regulations, leading to hefty fines and widespread recalls across the globe, with the U.S. settlement representing a significant portion of the penalties.
5. JPMorgan Chase – $13 Billion
JPMorgan Chase faced a substantial civil settlement tied to mortgage-backed securities and financial misconduct leading up to the 2008 crisis. The resolve aimed to hold the bank accountable for its role in contributing to one of the worst economic downturns in recent history.
6. Purdue Pharma – Approximately $7.4 Billion
The makers of OxyContin settled numerous lawsuits accusing the company of fueling the opioid epidemic. The settlement included funds for addiction treatment programs and increased regulation measures, marking a significant step in addressing the nation’s ongoing opioid crisis.
7. Enron Shareholder Settlement – $7.2 Billion
After the infamous Enron scandal exposed massive corporate fraud, shareholders received a settlement for their losses. The case highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in corporate governance and led to reforms such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
8. WorldCom – $6.1 Billion
Following revelation of one of the largest accounting scandals in U.S. history, WorldCom’s executives settled shareholder lawsuits that sought damages for the fraud that inflated the company’s earnings. This case led to increased scrutiny on corporate financial reporting.
9. Fen-Phen Diet Drugs – $3.75 Billion
The popular weight-loss drug Fen-Phen was linked to severe heart and lung issues. Settlements paid to thousands of victims reflected the widespread health consequences and the need for stringent drug safety regulations.
10. GlaxoSmithKline – $3 Billion
The pharmaceutical giant settled charges related to fraud and safety violations associated with certain medications. This case underscored the importance of regulatory oversight and transparency in pharmaceutical practices.
The legal landscape continues to evolve, reflecting the ongoing push for accountability across various sectors. Each of these landmark settlements has significantly influenced corporate behavior, regulatory policies, and consumer protections nationwide. As of 2025, these historic payouts remain symbols of justice in complex civil litigation.
Note: Settlement totals are approximate and sourced from Abels & Annes, P.C.
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