Further complicating the decision for Judge Smith is what the alternative would be if he rejects the deal.
An attorney representing the state of Massachusetts argued Smith should let the case go to trial.
“The settlement is deeply flawed and can’t be fixed at this point,” said Gary Klein, a Senior Trial Counsel for Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey.
But going to trial carries the risk of losing. Five previous class action cases have been dismissed or withdrawn.
“Then you’d have zero guns fixed. Zero,” Lanier said.
As if to underscore that point, attorney Dale Wills, representing Remington, said the company continues to defend the trigger design.
“There are millions of users and owners across the country that know one thing well,” he said. “The guns work.”
Judge Smith has promised a ruling within 30 days.
“You have given me a lot to think about,” he said.
If he approves the settlement, owners will have an additional 18 months to file a claim.
The agreement covers Remington models 700, Seven, Sportsman 78, 673, 710, 715, 770, 600, 660, XP-100, 721, 722, and 725.
