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ARTICLE · 10 SEPTEMBER 2015

Is Our Legal System Ready For The Evolution Of 3D Printing Technology?

Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker LLP
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Our prediction about the challenge to our long-held notions of product liability law posed by 3D printing (a/k/a stereotactic lithography) appears to be coming true.

United StatesConsumer Protection
Rosario Vignali
Rosario Vignali
Genese Dopson
Genese Dopson
Amy Baker
Amy Baker
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When we wrote back in November 2013 about 3D Printing and Product Liability Law, we predicted that the 3D printing revolution "will challenge our long-held notions of product liability law and the common assumptions made regarding the liability of various entities in the chain of distribution." Our blog challenged the reader to think about who the manufacturer would be under the make-believe fact scenario we posed for an injury allegedly caused by a 3D-printed product.

Our prediction about the challenge to our long-held notions of product liability law posed by 3D printing (a/k/a stereotactic lithography) appears to be coming true. Many are of the opinion that the occasional use of a 3D printer – even one that produces a defective product – would not give rise to strict product liability. Typically, the commercial sellers of products, and not the hobbyist, are at risk. Others have questioned the potential liability of one whose design is used by the 3D

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