A UK court blocked a claimant committee's attempt to replace law firm PGMBM. PGMBM, formerly Pogust Goodhead, represents over 400,000 Brazilians. The firm is involved in a £36 billion lawsuit against BHP concerning the 2015 Samarco dam disaster. The dispute centered on replacing PGMBM with a rival firm backed by a different litigation funder.
The judge ruled on October 12, 2026. The ruling stated the committee lacked authority to terminate PGMBM's contract for all individual claimants. This decision resolves an internal power struggle among plaintiffs. It provides stability to the legal team's leadership. The case will now proceed to its next phase, which will determine the quantum of damages owed by BHP.