Rob Bilott, the attorney known for his groundbreaking work against DuPont concerning hazardous chemical exposure, played a pivotal role in a significant legal case involving the contamination of drinking water with a chemical known as PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid). The settlement, reached in 2017, was substantial, amounting to $670 million. This was part of a broader class-action lawsuit that aimed to address the environmental and health impacts of PFOA on communities affected by DuPont's practices.
While Bilott's exact financial gain from this settlement is not public knowledge, it is common for attorneys in class-action lawsuits to receive a percentage of the settlement amount as their fee. Typically, this can range from 20% to 40%, depending on the agreement and the complexity of the case. Given the size of the settlement, it is plausible that Bilott could have earned tens of millions of dollars for his work, although this is speculative.
To provide some context, the case brought forth by Bilott ultimately led to greater awareness of toxic chemicals in consumer products and regulatory changes affecting such substances. The impact of his efforts extends beyond financial rewards, as they have fostered discussions on environmental health and corporate responsibility.
In conclusion, while the specific amount Rob Bilott made from the DuPont settlement isn't publicly disclosed, his involvement in this landmark case has not only highlighted critical environmental issues but likely yielded significant financial compensation consistent with typical legal practices. If you're interested in similar cases or want to understand more about legal settlements and their implications, exploring resources on environmental law and public health could be beneficial.