The order comes in multidistrict litigation involving securities fraud claims against Anadarko Petroleum Corporation, which was acquired by Occidental Petroleum Corporation in 2019. The consolidated action involves investors who allegedly suffered losses due to misrepresentations about the company's financial condition and business prospects.
U.S. District Judge Charles Eskridge noted that 'the time to notice any appeal has passed' regarding a recent class certification order, clearing the way for the litigation to proceed to the merits phase. The judge determined that 'further scheduling is in order' and directed the parties to collaborate on case management going forward.
The class certification order referenced in Thursday's ruling was entered as Document 302 on the court's docket. The securities litigation has been pending since 2020, with various motions and discovery disputes resolved over the past six years before reaching the current procedural milestone.
The parties must file their proposed scheduling and docket control order by April 17, 2026, which will likely establish deadlines for discovery completion, expert witness disclosures, and trial preparation. The ruling suggests the case is moving toward resolution after years of procedural litigation, potentially leading to settlement discussions or trial.