Knowing juries in that area, they will convict and name a large amount, but it will be appealed through the courts for a few years before closure is reached for a fraction of the amount originally named in the suit.
The action is partly political, not supported by the governor (an oil company supporter) and his wing of the party, and may get lost when the next batch of politicians is voted in.

Its importance is in focus(s)ing the anger of Alabamans and its influence on future regulations controlling offshore Alabama industries.