A federal judge chose two lawyers Monday to serve as lead counsel in a putative class action against drug manufacturers and pharmacies alleging antitrust violations, following squabbling from several firms eager to take the leading role.

U.S. District Judge Brian Martinotti of the District of New Jersey appointed Steve Berman of Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro and James Cecchi of Carella, Byrne, Cecchi, Olstein, Brody & Agnello to represent the putative class of patients with diabetes who purchased insulin from certain drugmakers.