Talcum Powder Mesothelioma Lawsuit Yesterday the Oakland mesothelioma trial against JJ concluded with closing arguments. The 24-year-old plaintiff told his personal tale of terror and despair over his cancer diagnosis. JJ has won a number of defense verdicts in the past 14 months in talcum-powder trial. But one huge verdict could turn the talcum powder spectrum on its upside. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that affects mesothelium. It is the membrane's lining or lining that covers certain organs of the body.