The nation's five biggest tobacco companies named in the lawsuit had asked Circuit Judge Robert Kaye to cap punitive damages at $15.3 billion, their combined net worth based on 1999 annual reports.

In responding to the request, Kaye said, "There's much more to this case than net worth or stockholder equity. I tried to explain that to you throughout the entire course of the trial. You guys fought me all the way down the line. I think you're wrong."

Instead, Kaye told the jury to consider overall financial resources, such as the value of trademarks, which are not part of net worth.

"We're talking financial resources. Financial resources mean the whole ball of wax," Kaye stressed.

The jury is expected to begin deliberations next week.

COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE:

Posted by Donna K DuBois on 14 Jun 08 02:56 AM EDT

My sister is dying with lung cancer caused from smoking. No one should have to suffer the pain and agony that she is going through. On top of everything she does not have the resources to help her fight this terrible disease. It is pure hell watching someone you love die this way.

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