DuPont 2014 Annual Report Download - page 13

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Part I
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS, continued
12
The company's results of operations could be adversely affected by litigation and other commitments and contingencies.
The company faces risks arising from various unasserted and asserted litigation matters, including, but not limited to, product
liability, patent infringement, antitrust claims, and claims for third party property damage or personal injury stemming from alleged
environmental torts. The company has noted a nationwide trend in purported class actions against chemical manufacturers generally
seeking relief such as medical monitoring, property damages, off-site remediation and punitive damages arising from alleged
environmental torts without claiming present personal injuries. The company also has noted a trend in public and private nuisance
suits being filed on behalf of states, counties, cities and utilities alleging harm to the general public. Various factors or developments
can lead to changes in current estimates of liabilities such as a final adverse judgment, significant settlement or changes in applicable
law. A future adverse ruling or unfavorable development could result in future charges that could have a material adverse effect
on the company. An adverse outcome in any one or more of these matters could be material to the company's financial results.
In the ordinary course of business, the company may make certain commitments, including representations, warranties and
indemnities relating to current and past operations, including those related to divested businesses and issue guarantees of third
party obligations. If the company were required to make payments as a result, they could exceed the amounts accrued, thereby
adversely affecting the company's results of operations.