The Lion Air crash in 2018 and the Ethiopian Airlines crash in 2019, both involving Boeing 737 Max aircraft, resulted in a tragic loss of 346 lives. Boeing faced charges of fraud for allegedly misleading the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) during the certification process of the 737 Max. Initially, Boeing had agreed to plead guilty to these charges.
However, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is now moving to drop the criminal case against Boeing, opting instead for a non-criminal settlement. This settlement includes an additional $444.5 million allocated to a crash victims' fund, intended for distribution among the families of the victims. The decision to transition from criminal charges to a settlement has sparked significant controversy and dissatisfaction among the affected families, who are seeking further accountability for the tragic events.
Families' Reaction and Legal Implications
Families' Outrage
The decision by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to drop the criminal case against Boeing has sparked significant outrage among the families of the crash victims. Many view the DOJ's decision as a failure to hold Boeing adequately accountable for its role in the tragedies.
- Sanjiv Singh, an attorney representing 16 victims from the Lion Air crash, has publicly criticized the settlement.
- He described the settlement as insufficient, likening it to a bribe rather than a measure of justice.
Legal Actions and Advocacy
In response to the DOJ's decision, the families are planning to:
- Object in court to the DOJ's decision.
- Seek accountability that extends beyond financial compensation.
- Advocate for measures ensuring Boeing is held responsible for any negligence or misconduct that contributed to the crashes.
Current Status
- The DOJ has not issued a comment regarding its decision to pursue a non-criminal settlement.
- Boeing has not responded to requests for comment.
This leaves the situation open-ended, with families continuing to push for further legal action to achieve what they believe to be true justice and accountability.
How Goldfaden Benson Can Assist Families in Aviation Tragedies
Families impacted by aviation accidents often face complex legal challenges and may seek justice and compensation beyond initial settlements. At Goldfaden Benson, we are committed to holding corporations accountable for negligence and fraud in aviation cases, ensuring that victims' families receive the justice they deserve.
Our experienced legal team specializes in navigating the intricacies of aviation litigation, advocating for comprehensive justice and corporate accountability. We understand the profound impact these tragedies have on families and are dedicated to pursuing all available legal avenues to secure fair compensation and accountability.
If your family has been affected by an aviation tragedy, contact Goldfaden Benson today for expert legal guidance and support. Our team is ready to assist you in understanding your rights and pursuing the justice your family deserves.
