Why do critics still regard the outcome as unsatisfying?
Victim payouts are small relative to the harm described, the Sacklers keep most of their fortune paid over 15 years, and no family member was criminally charged — while supporters argue the settlement funds billions in opioid treatment.
The main criticisms are about proportionality and accountability. Victims' payouts are small relative to the harm described; the individual awards were described as a frustration for victims. The Sacklers keep most of their fortune and pay over 15 years. No Sackler family member was criminally charged, and the 2020 plea agreement expressly did not release individuals from potential criminal liability, but none followed.
Unlike the 2021 hearing, the 2025 process did not require family members to hear from victims in court. The judge himself acknowledged the plan was not perfect. On the other side, supporters argue the settlement delivers billions to opioid treatment and prevention, makes documents public, and closes a case that had consumed more than six years of litigation.