Experience
Defense Verdict for Utility Company Client in Two-Week Jury Trial
Secured a defense verdict for a utility client after a two-week jury trial in Johnson County, Missouri. The plaintiffs alleged that their house and personal belongings were destroyed by a fire they claimed was caused by our client. They also claimed our client failed to timely respond after being notified of electrical issues at the house. The incident occurred during a major winter storm event that impacted the entirety of our client’s service area. Plaintiffs initially asserted claims for negligence and recklessness, and violations of the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act (MMPA), seeking more than $650,000 in compensatory damages. They also sought punitive damages and told the jury during voir dire that they intended to ask for $20-30 million. After six years of litigation and a two-week trial, the jury deliberated for about an hour before finding entirely in favor of our client.
Jury Verdict Affirmed in Slip-and-Fall Case
The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a verdict favorable for our client following a trial in which the jury found the plaintiff 94% at fault for a slip-and-fall following a major winter weather event. The Eighth Circuit affirmed the trial court’s ruling excluding portions of the plaintiff’s deposition designations, which sought to introduce the cost of the plaintiff’s future medical care and information regarding his future surgeries.
Defense of Convenience Store Client in Personal Injury Case
Represented a convenience store client in a jury trial before the Western District of Missouri in a case involving a slip and fall at a fueling station following a major winter storm. The plaintiff asked the jury for damages related to medical expenses, past pain and suffering, and future pain and suffering. Following a four-day trial, the jury assigned 94% of the fault to the plaintiff and only 6% to the client.
Dismissal in Consumer Class Action Lawsuit for Sporting Goods Retailer
Secured the dismissal of a consumer protection and class action lawsuit against a major sporting goods and outdoor equipment retailer filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri. The matter specifically involved claims of alleged violation of the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, unjust enrichment, and violation of consumer protection laws in 21 other states. The plaintiff sought to represent a nationwide class of customers seeking millions of dollars in damages for alleged violations of various states consumer protection statutes. The court granted the client’s motion to dismiss, and the plaintiff did not appeal or seek leave to amend.
Defense Verdict in Premises Liability Action
Defended client in a premises liability action where the plaintiff claims she was injured after tripping in the client's parking lot. A jury trial was held in Jackson County, Missouri. Jury returned a complete defense verdict.
Largest 2014 Missouri Defense Verdict
Won the largest 2014 defense verdict in Missouri on behalf of a gas company in a $30 million furnace explosion case. The ranking was reported by Missouri Lawyers Weekly.
