APRIL 30, 2012 California’s Million Dollar Verdicts · Malynn, Los Angeles, CA of Feldman Gale,...
Transcript of APRIL 30, 2012 California’s Million Dollar Verdicts · Malynn, Los Angeles, CA of Feldman Gale,...
Unprecedented Results.Unparalleled Success.
2011 Top Verdicts:
Five of the Top 100 Verdicts
Yoon v. USA $17, 845,000.00 December 28, 2011
Cuthbertson v. LACMTA $17,000,000.00 July 29, 2011
Barber v. Mossy Ford $14,465, 864.00 January 11, 2011
Curiel v. SSA Marine $13, 961,981.00 May 6, 2011
Morataya v. City of Bakers�eld $2,123,262.00 May 20, 2011
Brian Panish Adam Shea Kevin Boyle Peter Polos Deborah Chang Spencer Lucas
Four of the Top 30 Verdicts
STRENGTH BY YOUR SIDE
THE RECORDER | WWW.THERECORDER.COM WEEK OF APRIL 30, 2012 | 5TOP VERDICTS
Congratulates
The Yoon v. USA Trial TeamSTRENGTH BY YOUR SIDE
Verdict: $14,465,864.00
After a U.S. F-18 Hornet �ghter jet negligently crashed into the home of Don Yoon, his home was incinerated and his wife, two children, and mother-in-law were killed. Five plainti�s from two extraordinary Korean families took on the United States of America -- and won a record verdict of $17,845,000.00 for their unimaginable losses.
Brian Panish Kevin Boyle Peter Polos Deborah Chang
The 20th Highest Verdict of 2011
Patrick Gunning
RANK CASE DATE COURT TYPE OF ACTION HEADLINE ATTORNEYS AWARD
1 Pacesetter Inc. v. Nervicon Co. Ltd.
4/22/2011 Los Angeles County
Intellectual Property: Misappropriation of Trade Secrets
Company: Former employee stole highly technical info
James A. Gale, Miami, FL of Feldman Gale, P.A.; Todd M. Malynn, Los Angeles, CA of Feldman Gale, P.A.
$2,315,586,000
2 Asahi Kasei Pharma Corp. v. Actelion Ltd.
4/29/2011 San Mateo County
Intellectual Property: Breach of Licensing Agreement
Company alleged rival halted drug development
Christopher J. Banks, San Francisco, CA of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius; Rollin B. Chippey, II, San Francisco, CA of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius; Tera M. Heintz, San Francisco, CA of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius; Matthew J. Poole, San Francisco, CA of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius; Benjamin P. Smith, San Francisco, CA of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius
$576,875,004
3 Medtronic Sofamor Danek USA Inc. v. NuVasive Inc.
9/20/2011 Federal Intellectual Property: Patents
Plaintiff claimed infringements of spinal surgery patents
Ali-Reza Boloori, Los Angeles, CA of Kirkland & Ellis, L.L.P.; Jason F. Choy, Los Angeles, CA of Kirkland & Ellis, L.L.P.; Luke L. Dauchot, Los Angeles, CA of Kirkland & Ellis, L.L.P.; Christopher M.C. Lawless, Los Angeles, CA of Kirkland & Ellis, L.L.P.; Sharre S. Lotfollahi, Los Angeles, CA of Kirkland & Ellis, L.L.P.; Alexander F. MacKinnon, Los Angeles, CA of Kirkland & Ellis, L.L.P.
$101,196,000
4 Mattel Inc. v. MGA Entertainment Inc.
4/20/2011 Federal Intellectual Property: Misappropriation of Trade Secrets
Doll makers dispute ownership of toy doll product line
Jennifer L. Keller, Irvine, CA of Keller Rackauckas, L.L.P.; Mark E. Overland, Santa Monica, CA of Law Offices of Mark E. Overland; Annette L. Hurst, San Francisco, CA of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, L.L.P.; Thomas S. McConville, Irvine, CA of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, L.L.P.; Alexander H. Cote, Los Angeles, CA of Scheper, Kim & Harris, L.L.P.
$88,500,000
5 Mauro v. Ford Motor Co. Inc. 11/10/2011 Sacramento County
Products Liability: Design Defect
Ford didn’t publicize tire recall, suit alleged
Robert B. Bale, Sacramento, CA of Dreyer, Babich, Buccola & Wood, L.L.P.; Roger A. Dreyer, Sacramento, CA of Dreyer, Babich, Buccola & Wood, L.L.P.; Christine D. Spagnoli, Santa Monica, CA of Greene, Broillet & Wheeler, L.L.P.; William C. Callaham, Sacramento, CA of Wilcoxen Callaham, L.L.P.
$73,063,649
6 Lucent Technologies Inc. v. Gateway Inc.
7/29/2011 Federal Intellectual Property: Infringement
Appeals court ordered new trial following $358M verdict
Luke L. Dauchot, Los Angeles, CA of Kirkland & Ellis LLP; Jeanne M. Heffernan, New York, NY of Kirkland & Ellis LLP
$70,000,000
7 Rosenberg v. Encino-Tarzana Regional Medical Center
11/17/2011 Los Angeles County
Negligence: Negligent Supervision
Patient: Hospital failed to fire employee prior to sexual assault
Maryann P. Gallagher, Los Angeles, CA of Law Offices of Maryann P. Gallagher; Michael J. Piuze, Los Angeles, CA of Law Offices of Michael J. Piuze
$67,359,753
8 Trust Company of the West v. Gundlach
9/16/2011 Los Angeles County
Intellectual Property: Misappropriation of Trade Secrets
Bond firm alleged former workers stole proprietary info
Brad D. Brian, Los Angeles, CA of Munger, Tolles & Olson, L.L.P.; Mark B. Helm, Los Angeles, CA of Munger, Tolles & Olson, L.L.P.; Gregory J. Weingart, Los Angeles, CA of Munger, Tolles & Olson, L.L.P.
$66,700,000
9 CFRI-NCA Palladium Venture, LLC v. NCA Argyle LP
10/14/2011 Los Angeles County
Contracts: Breach of Joint Venture Agreement
Developer: Fund manager abandoned joint partnership
Alan A. Greenberg, Irvine, CA of Greenberg Traurig, LLP; Wayne R. Gross, Irvine, CA of Greenberg Traurig, LLP
$50,356,784
Herron v. Nederlander Greek, Inc.
$3.2 Million for a broken leg…
some say it’s a “runaway verdict”…
we call it JUSTICE*
*1/3 of our fee paid to referral lawyer
OWEN, PATTERSON & OWEN
1-800-676-5295www.opolaw.com
OWEN, PATTERSON & OWENPERSONAL INJURY LAW
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THE RECORDER | WWW.THERECORDER.COM WEEK OF APRIL 30, 2012 | 7TOP VERDICTS
Congratulates
The Cuthbertson v. LACMTA Trial TeamSTRENGTH BY YOUR SIDE
Verdict: $17,000,000.00
Brian Panish Deborah Chang
The 24th Highest Verdict of 2011 A step into a gap that changed how theMTA treated visually impaired users of its trains:
Legally blind Cameron Cuthbertson lost hislife after mistaking the gap between rail cars fora doorway. After falling to the tracks, he was crushed to death when the train began to move. His death brought numerous changes and highlighted the fundamental rights of the visually impaired to use public transportation. The jury heard a remarkable story of a brave and humble man from Compton who had a unique relationship with his extraordinary mother. Together, they became heroes in ensuring the rights of those who depend on trains and the LACMTA the most.
10 Pedeferri v. White 1/25/2011 Ventura County Motor Vehicle: Parked Car
High on marijuana, driver plowed into parked car, officer
C. Michael Alder, Beverly Hills, CA of AlderLaw, P.C.; John F. Gerard, Los Angeles, CA of Law Offices of John F. Gerard; Erik B. Feingold, Ventura, CA of Myers, Widders, Gibson, Jones & Schneider LLP
$49,644,258
11 Trejo v. McNeil Consumer & Specialty Pharmaceuticals
10/3/2011 Los Angeles County
Products Liability: Warnings
Pain reliever Motrin lacked adequate warnings: plaintiff
Michael P. Manapol, West Hollywood, CA of Law Offices of Brian D. Witzer, Inc.; Brian D. Witzer, West Hollywood, CA of Law Offices of Brian D. Witzer, Inc.; Jeffrey E. Zinder, West Hollywood, CA of Law Offices of Brian D. Witzer, Inc.
$48,192,880
12 Casey v. FDCC California Inc. 5/11/2011 San Francisco County
Products Liability: Asbestos
Plumber said exposure to asbestos dust caused cancer
Dustin Bodaghi, Novato, CA of Brayton Purcell, L.L.P.; Gilbert L. Purcell, Novato, CA of Brayton Purcell, L.L.P.
$41,273,421
13 Concept Chaser Co. Inc. v. Pentel of America Ltd.
12/8/2011 Los Angeles County
Contracts: Breach of Contract
Ad agency claimed pen maker stole ad ideas
C. Michael Alder, Beverly Hills, CA of AlderLaw P.C.; Marni B. Folinsky, Beverly Hills, CA of AlderLaw P.C.; Ronald Beck, Long Beach, CA of Perona, Langer, Beck & Serbin, APC; Jeffrey I. Ehrlich, Encino, CA of The Ehrlich Law Firm
$32,875,000
14 Bell v. MasterCraft Boat Co. 6/7/2011 Butte County Products Liability: Design Defect
Plaintiffs swept off boat when its bow submerged during turn
Robert B. Bale, Sacramento, CA of Dreyer, Babich, Buccola & Wood, L.L.P.; Roger A. Dreyer, Sacramento, CA of Dreyer, Babich, Buccola & Wood, L.L.P.
$31,432,741
15 Sharp Image Gaming Inc. v. Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians
12/22/2011 El Dorado County
Contracts: Breach of Contract
Game machine provider: Tribe breached contract
Craig C. Allison, Sacramento, CA of DLA Piper LLP (US); Matthew G. Jacobs, Sacramento, CA of DLA Piper LLP (US); Steven S. Kimball, Sacramento, CA of DLA Piper LLP (US)
$30,442,964
16 Hutchinson v. Bucci 7/25/2011 Solano County Motor Vehicle: Dangerous Condition
Plaintiffs: Lack of median barrier resulted in head-on crash
Richard C. Bennett, Oakland, CA of Bennett, Johnson & Galler; Thomas J. Brandi, San Francisco, CA of The Brandi Law Firm
$29,277,391
17 Nickerson v. Stonebridge Life Insurance Co.
3/16/2011 Los Angeles County
Insurance: Coverage Plaintiff: Carrier acted in bad faith by not paying full hospital stay
Howard S. Shernoff, Claremont, CA of Shernoff, Bidart, Darras & Echeverria, L.L.P.; William M. Shernoff, Claremont, CA of Shernoff, Bidart, Darras & Echeverria, L.L.P.
$19,035,000
18 Conceptus Inc. v. Hologic Inc. 10/17/2011 Federal Intellectual Property: Patents
Plaintiff claimed competing procedure infringed on patent
Bryan K. Anderson, Palo Alto, CA of Sidley Austin, L.L.P.; Aaron R. Bleharski, Palo Alto, CA of Sidley Austin, L.L.P.; Nitin Reddy, Los Angeles, CA of Sidley Austin, L.L.P.; M. Patricia Thayer, San Francisco, CA of Sidley Austin, L.L.P.; Tashica T. Williams, Los Angeles, CA of Sidley Austin, L.L.P.
$18,807,241
19 Liu v. Seybert 3/28/2011 Sacramento County
Motor Vehicle: Pedestrian
Young doctor suffered brain injury when hit by car
Dugan Barr, Redding, CA of Barr & Mudford; Richard J. Molin, Chico, CA of Stewart Humpherys Molin & Griffith, LLP
$18,264,142
20 Yoon v. USA 12/28/2011 San Diego County
Admiralty/Maritime: Boating Accidents
United States Marine Corp F/A-18D Hornet fighter jet crashed into the family home.
Brian J. Panish, Kevin R. Boyle, L.L.P., and Hon. Peter J. Polos (Ret.); Panish, Shea,& Boyle, Los Angeles and Santa Monica
$17,845,000
Gwilliam, Ivary, Chiosso, Cavalli & Brewer is proud to be named for the third consecutive year in Verdict Search’s top California verdicts. The firm recognizes partner J. Gary Gwilliam and associate Jayme L. Burns on achieving this key breach of contract and fraud verdict.
In Allmed Systems, Inc. versus Healthtronics, Inc. the jury awarded the plaintiff, a small medical business owner, $9,263,345. The jury concluded that Healthtronics, a large medical supply distributor, breached the contract with Allmed Systems and made intentional and negligent misrepresentations to the plaintiff. The jury returned the verdict on November 4, 2011. On February 9, 2012 the Alameda Superior Court awarded plaintiffs’ attorneys fees in the amount of $1,745,740.00, costs in an amount to be determined, and interest on the entire judgment bringing the final award in excess of $11 million dollars. On April 9, 2012, Healthtronics’ motions for judgment notwithstanding the verdict and new trial were denied.
Since 1978 the law firm of Gwilliam, Ivary Chiosso, Cavalli & Brewer continues to champion the cause of victims’ rights. The firm specializes in serious and
complex cases in the personal injury and consumer law field including business fraud, employment, civil litigation, professional malpractice, product liability and bad faith insurance. It has a superior track record for verdicts and settlements.
GWILLIAM, IVARY, CHIOSSO, CAVALLI & BREWERA PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION
1999 Harrison Street Suite 1600 | Oakland, California 94612510-832-5411 | www.giccb.com
RANK CASE DATE COURT TYPE OF ACTION HEADLINES ATTORNEYS AWARD
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THE RECORDER | WWW.THERECORDER.COM WEEK OF APRIL 30, 2012 | 9TOP VERDICTS
Congratulates
Robert Buccola Adam Shea Spencer Lucas Jason Sigel
The Barber v. Mossy Ford Trial Team
The 25th Highest Verdict for 2011 A haunting image was presented to the jury: three small boys huddled by the side of the highway crying for help after seeing their parents killed when their van rolled over during a family vacation. Their lives were forever changed because a tire puncture was negligently repaired, causing a catastrophic tire tread separation. Three little boys. Four great trial attorneys. The 25th highest verdict in California for 2011.
STRENGTH BY YOUR SIDE
Verdict: $14,465,864.00
21 Bankhead v. ArvinMeritor Inc. 1/6/2011 Alameda County
Products Liability: Asbestos
Parts man alleged exposure to asbestos led to mesothelioma
Justin Bosl, Oakland, CA of Kazan, McClain, Lyons, Greenwood & Harley; Leigh Kirmsse, Oakland, CA of Kazan, McClain, Lyons, Greenwood & Harley; Joseph D. Satterley, Louisville, KY of Sales & Satterley
$17,470,000
22 Estate of Mazurek v. American Medical Response Inc.
5/20/2011 San Diego County
Motor Vehicle: Bicycle Suit: Van driver’s hasty turn led to fatal collision with bicyclist
Ara Jabagchourian, Burlingame, CA of Cotchett, Pitre & McCarthy, LLP; Frank M. Pitre, Burlingame, CA of Cotchett, Pitre & McCarthy, LLP
$17,440,564
23 Hout v. Slaski 7/20/2011 Orange County Intentional Torts: Assault and Battery
Drunken adult assaulted teen after party, suit alleged
Michael S. Sutton, Mission Viejo, CA of Sutton & Murphy $17,289,993
24 Estate of Cuthbertson v. Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation
7/29/2011 Los Angeles County
Civil Rights: ADA Suit: Train’s lack of barriers led to blind man’s fatal fall
Deborah Chang, Los Angeles, CA of Panish, Shea & Boyle, L.L.P.; Brian J. Panish, Los Angeles, CA of Panish, Shea & Boyle, L.L.P.
$17,000,000
25 Barber v. Mossy Ford Inc. 1/12/2011 San Diego County
Negligence: Negligent Repair
Suit: Mechanic’s failure to remove tire led to fatal rollover
Robert A. Buccola, Sacramento, CA of Dreyer, Babich, Buccola & Wood, L.L.P.; Jason J. Sigel, Sacramento, CA of Dreyer, Babich, Buccola & Wood, L.L.P.; Spencer R. Lucas, Los Angeles, CA of Panish, Shea & Boyle, L.L.P.; Adam K. Shea, Los Angeles, CA of Panish, Shea & Boyle, L.L.P.
$14,465,864
26 Curiel v. SSA Marine Inc. 5/6/2011 Los Angeles County
Worker/Workplace Negligence
Trucker injured when crane dropped heavy load into his cab
Spencer R. Lucas, Los Angeles, CA of Panish Shea & Boyle LLP; Brian J. Panish, Los Angeles, CA of Panish Shea & Boyle LLP
$13,961,049
27 Boeken v. Philip Morris USA 8/9/2011 Los Angeles County
Products Liability: Failure to Warn
Son alleged loss of love and affection from father’s death
Michael J. Piuze, Los Angeles, CA of Law Offices of Michael J. Piuze; Geraldine Weiss, Los Angeles, CA of Law Offices of Michael J. Piuze
$12,800,000
28 Burin v. Hall 8/5/2011 San Diego County
Motor Vehicle: Single Vehicle
Man alleged brain injury after he hit his head in car accident
Robert N. Hamparyan, San Diego, CA of The Gomez Law Firm; Steven C. Vosseller, San Diego, CA of The Gomez Law Firm
$12,286,679
29 Cole v. Vink 11/7/2011 Stanislaus County
Motor Vehicle: Passenger
Pltff. claimed negligent harvest direction led to collision
Randall H. Scarlett, San Francisco, CA of Scarlett Law Group
$10,651,423
30 Corbo v. New United Motor Manufacturing Inc.
9/29/2011 Alameda County
Products Liability: Design Defect
Pltf claimed electric flatbed truck had insufficient warnings
Kevin Lancaster, San Francisco, CA of The Veen Firm, P.C.; William L. Veen, San Francisco, CA of The Veen Firm, P.C.; Kimberly A. Wong, San Francisco, CA of The Veen Firm, P.C.
$10,210,707
31 Hyan v. Gold 6/15/2011 Los Angeles County
Legal Profession: Malpractice
Man said he lost money due to firm’s mishandling of contract
Padraic Glaspy, Los Angeles, CA of Howarth & Smith; Don Howarth, Los Angeles, CA of Howarth & Smith; Suzelle M. Smith, Los Angeles, CA of Howarth & Smith
$10,155,559
32 Goble v. Estate of Pike 12/1/2011 San Bernardino County
Aviation: Helicopter Helicopter struck power lines and crashed, killing pilots
Michael S. Danko, San Mateo, CA of The Danko Law Firm $10,000,000
33 Bolduc v. Ohebsion 7/22/2011 Los Angeles County
Landlord and Tenant: Breach of Lease
Property owner claimed defendant tried to force sale
Robert C. Risbrough, Irvine, CA of Darling & Risbrough, L.L.P.; Eoin L. Kreditor, Irvine, CA of Friedman, Stroffe & Gerard, P.C.
$9,973,560
RANK CASE DATE COURT TYPE OF ACTION HEADLINES ATTORNEYS AWARD
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THE RECORDER | WWW.THERECORDER.COM WEEK OF APRIL 30, 2012 | 11TOP VERDICTS
Congratulates
The Curiel v. SSA Marine Trial TeamSTRENGTH BY YOUR SIDE
Verdict: $13,961,981.00
Brian Panish
The 26th Highest Verdict of 2011 48-year-old Felipe Curiel was crushed and pinned inside his truck when a 25,000 pound container fell from 40 feet onto his truck cab due to the negligence of a crane operator working for the world’s largest maritime docking company. The plainti�’s devastating spinal injuries resulted in a complex and debilitating chronic pain syndrome. The jury’s verdict is believed to be the largest in Long Beach history, and was the 26th highest verdict of 2011.
Spencer Lucas
34 Horner v. Carrier Corp. 6/16/2011 San Diego County
Contracts: Breach of Contract
Laid-off manager said employer failed to adhere to agreement
L.B. Chip Edleson, San Diego, CA of Edleson & Rezzo; Joann F. Rezzo, San Diego, CA of Edleson & Rezzo
$9,584,000
35 Allmed Systems Inc. v. HealthTronics Inc.
11/4/2011 Alameda County
Contracts: Breach of Contract
Companies dispute best efforts to sell medical laser
Jayme L. Burns, Oakland, CA of Gwilliam, Ivary, Chiosso, Cavalli & Brewer; J. Gary Gwilliam, Oakland, CA of Gwilliam, Ivary, Chiosso, Cavalli & Brewer; Richard E. Korb, Berkeley, CA of Law Offices of Richard E. Korb
$9,263,345
36 Duhn Oil Tool Inc. v. Cooper Cameron Corp.
2/2/2011 Federal Intellectual Property: Infringement
Plaintiff claimed frac system infringed on its patent
Thomas J. Daly, Pasadena, CA of Christie, Parker & Hale, L.L.P.; Edward R. Schwartz, Pasadena, CA of Christie, Parker & Hale, L.L.P.; William J. Kolegraff, Irvine, CA of Thomas, Whitelaw & Tyler, L.L.P.
$8,659,974
37 Stoltenberg v. Ampton Investments Inc.
5/5/2011 Los Angeles County
Torts: Breach of Fiduciary Duty
Plaintiffs alleged they were misled by mall’s general partner
Kathleen M. Erskine, Los Angeles, CA of Law Offices of Richard A. Love; Richard A. Love, Los Angeles, CA of Law Offices of Richard A. Love
$8,516,704
38 Hairston v. Regents of University California
10/28/2011 Sacramento County
Medical Malpractice: Failure to Detect
Patient: Radiology Dept. failed to detect malformation on spine
C. Brooks Cutter, Sacramento, CA of Kershaw, Cutter & Ratinoff, L.L.P.; Eric J. Ratinoff, Sacramento, CA of Kershaw, Cutter & Ratinoff, L.L.P.
$7,624,318
39 Wall v. Miramontes 12/17/2011 San Diego County
Motor Vehicle: Motorcycle
Motorcyclist: Shuttle driver’s negligent turn caused crash
Nicholas C. Rowley, Beverly Hills, CA of Carpenter, Zuckerman & Rowley, L.L.P.; Courtney E. Yoder, Santa Cruz, CA of Law Offices of Courtney Yoder, P.C.; Kimberly K. Barrows, El Cajon, CA of Law Offices of Howard Alan Kitay; Howard A. Kitay, El Cajon, CA of Law Offices of Howard Alan Kitay
$7,553,000
40 Zaccaglin v. Starbucks Coffee Co.
12/23/2011 San Diego County
Premises Liability: Dangerous Condition
Coffee shop’s wet floor caused slip and fall, customer alleged
John H. Gomez, San Diego, CA of The Gomez Law Firm; James S. Iagmin, San Diego, CA of The Gomez Law Firm; Jessica Sizemore, San Diego, CA of The Gomez Law Firm
$7,456,231
41 Fretz v. Minuteman Parking Co.
6/10/2011 Riverside County
Motor Vehicle: Pedestrian
Tennis instructor claimed brain damage after being hit by car
Joseph Daniel Davis, Los Angeles, CA of Law Offices of Joseph Daniel Davis
$7,381,115
42 Estate of Haen v. Logos Group
6/30/2011 Fresno County Motor Vehicle: Tractor-Trailer
Trailer fatally struck pedestrian after rigs became entangled
Charles M. Barrett, Sacramento, CA of Dreyer, Babich, Buccola & Wood, L.L.P.; Roger A. Dreyer, Sacramento, CA of Dreyer, Babich, Buccola & Wood, L.L.P.
$7,284,000
43 Ornelas v. Southern California Edison Co.
3/1/2011 Fresno County Motor Vehicle: Weather Conditions
Driver lost control during snowstorm, crashed into SUV
Patrick D. Toole, Fresno, CA of Jones Helsley PC; Richard C. Watters, Fresno, CA of Miles, Sears & Eanni
$5,746,627
44 Tran v. U.S. Mineral Products Co.
6/2/2011 Federal Employment: Retaliation Manager said he was fired after reporting CEO’s harassment
Victor L. George, Torrance, CA of Law Offices of Victor L. George; Douglas W. Perlman, Torrance, CA of Rastegar & Matern
$5,418,771
45 Johnson v. Sears Holding Corp.
10/21/2011 Sacramento County
Employment: Workplace Harassment
Plaintiff: Coworker assaulted him and used racial slurs
Christopher H. Whelan, Gold River, CA of Law Offices of Christopher H. Whelan; Brian D. Whelan, Fresno, CA of Law Offices Walter W. Whelan
$5,183,773
RANK CASE DATE COURT TYPE OF ACTION HEADLINES ATTORNEYS AWARD
In December 2009, Trust Company of the West fired Jeffrey Gundlach. Gundlach subsequently set up his own fund man-agement business, DoubleLine Capital, with three other TCW employees. TCW sued Gundlach, DoubleLine Capital and the three employees, alleging misappro-priation of trade secrets, breach of fiduciary duty and tortious interference with a con-tract. Gundlach countersued and accused TCW of terminating his employment after 24 years at the firm in order to avoid paying him promised income.
The jury found that Gundlach had breached his fiduciary duty, committed tortious interference and misappropriated trade secrets, but said there was no harm to TCW and awarded no financial compensa-tion.
Case: Trust Company of the West v. Gund-lach, BC429385
Court: Los Angeles County Superior Court, Los Angeles
Counsel for the plaintiff: John Quinn, Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, Los Angeles
Counsel for defendant: Brad Brian, Mark Helm and Gregory Weingart, Munger, Tolles & Olson, Los Angeles
9. CONTRACTS
An investment adviser won $50.4 million in a breach of contract suit.
CFRI-NCA Palladium Venture LLC and its affiliates alleged that they were the owners of four properties in Hollywood and that they entered into an oral contract with Newport Capital Advisors LLC and its affiliates for the redevelopment of the properties. Plaintiffs then sued Newport Capital and its affiliates for declaratory re-lief, claiming that they had no written con-tractual obligations to enter into any ven-tures with the defendants, that they could terminate their oral contracts without any liability to the defendants, that they were the sole owners of the four properties, and that the defendants had no interest in the properties.
Newport Capital then cross-complained against the CFRI entities for dissolution of joint ventures and for recovery of the rea-sonable value of services. The plaintiffs ultimately dropped their entire complaint, and Newport Capital dropped its claims for dissolution of joint ventures. The trial subsequently proceeded on Newport Cap-ital’s cross-complaint for breach of fiducia-ry duties and reasonable value of services. The jury found for Newport Capital.
Case: CFRI-NCA Palladium Venture v. NCA Argyle, BC412918
Court: Los Angeles County Superior Court, Los Angeles
Counsel for the plaintiff: Rosina Her-nandez, Alan Petlak, David Stauss and Roger Thomasch, Ballard Spahr, Los An-geles and Denver
Counsel for defendant: Alan Greenberg and Wayne Gross, Greenberg Traurig, Ir-vine
VERDICTSContinued from page 10
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12 | WEEK OF APRIL 30, 2012 THE RECORDER | WWW.THERECORDER.COMTOP VERDICTS
Kristine Meredith
Mike Danko*
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46 Martin v. Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Co.
2/4/2011 Los Angeles County
Railroad: FELA Railroad worker jumped from train to avoid crash, injured leg
Anthony S. Petru, Oakland, CA of Hildebrand, McLeod & Nelson LLP; Victor A. Russo, Los Angeles, CA of Hildebrand, McLeod & Nelson LLP
$4,931,549
47 Tellez v. Hilton 7/7/2011 Los Angeles County
Motor Vehicle: Pedestrian
Gas station attendant claimed he was hit by drunken driver
Christopher L. Campbell, Long Beach, CA of Law Office of Christopher L. Campbell; Joseph M. Kar, Sherman Oaks, CA of Law Office of Joseph M. Kar; Nathan V. Hoffman, Los Angeles, CA of Law Offices of Hoffman & Osorio, LLP; Spyros Osorio, Los Angeles, CA of Law Offices of Hoffman & Osorio, LLP
$4,889,369
48 Villanueva v. A&F Engineering
5/16/2011 San Mateo County
Motor Vehicle: Reversing Vehicle
Family sought excess damages for death at work
Chantel Fitting, San Mateo, CA of Galine, Frye & Fitting; John N. Frye, San Mateo, CA of Galine, Frye & Fitting
$4,583,742
49 Cotton v. City of Eureka 9/23/2011 Federal Civil Rights: Police as Defendant
Family: Officers failed to seek medical care for decedent
Dale K. Galipo, Woodland Hills, CA of Law Offices of Dale K. Galipo; Vicki I. Sarmiento, Alhambra, CA of Law Offices of Vickie I. Sarmiento
$4,575,000
50 Hager v. Los Angeles County 9/30/2011 Los Angeles County
Employment: Retaliation Plaintiff: Firing due to reporting findings of corrupt deputy
Richard A. Love, Los Angeles, CA of Law Office of Richard A. Love
$4,506,015
51 Hansen v. Kangah 3/28/2011 San Bernardino County
Medical Malpractice: Negligent Treatment
Docs blamed for patient’s death after Whipple procedure
Jeffrey S. Raynes, Redlands, CA of Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Raynes
$4,400,000
52 Nevarrez v. San Marino Skilled Nursing and Wellness Centre, LLC
3/10/2011 Los Angeles County
Elder Law: California Elder Abuse Act
Man claimed nursing facility failed to prevent his 11 falls
Lisa T. Flint, Anaheim, CA of Law Offices of Michael F. Moran; Michael F. Moran, Anaheim, CA of Law Offices of Michael F. Moran
$4,391,008
53 Kieffer v. UNUM Life Insurance
1/31/2011 Los Angeles County
Insurance: Bad Faith Suit: Disability benefits were terminated despite evidence of injury
Ivan Puchalt, Santa Monica, CA of Greene, Broillet & Wheeler, L.L.P.; Mark T. Quigley, Santa Monica, CA of Greene, Broillet & Wheeler, L.L.P.
$4,200,000
54 Savage v. State of California 6/27/2011 Nevada County Motor Vehicle: Dangerous Condition
Plaintiffs blamed motorcycle crash on missing warning signs
Aimee E. Kirby, Redondo Beach, CA of Kirby, Kirby and Kirby; Steven C. Kirby, Redondo Beach, CA of Kirby, Kirby and Kirby; Arash Homampour, Sherman Oaks, CA of The Homampour Law Firm PLC
$4,169,822
55 Gavello v. Brown 2/25/2011 San Francisco County
Medical Malpractice: Failure to Monitor
Suit: Doctor left patient with nurse too soon after surgery
Conor M. Kelly, San Francisco, CA of Galloway, Lucchese, Everson & Picchi; Melinda Derish, San Francisco, CA of Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger; Paul V. Melodia, San Francisco, CA of Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger
$3,977,831
56 Ricardez v. McCorkendale 7/25/2011 Santa Barbara County
Motor Vehicle: Rear-ender
Torsten M. Bassell, Los Angeles, CA of The Lari-Joni Law Firm; Nicole Lari-Joni, Los Angeles, CA of The Lari-Joni Law Firm
$3,890,625
RANK CASE DATE COURT TYPE OF ACTION HEADLINES ATTORNEYS AWARD
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THE RECORDER | WWW.THERECORDER.COM WEEK OF APRIL 30, 2012 | 13TOP VERDICTS
Congratulates
The Morataya v. City of Bakers�eld Trial Team
STRENGTH BY YOUR SIDE
Brian Panish
The 84th Highest Verdict of 2011
54-year-old Armando Morataya died after being run over by a City employee at Je�erson Park in Bakers�eld. Born in El Salvador, he believed in the American dream and dedicated himself to hard work and self-sacri�ce so that his family could have a better life. His 74-year-old mother and two adult daughters took on the City of Bakers�eld, and won a record wrongful death verdict.
David Cohn Deborah Chang
Verdict: $2,123,262.00
Congratulations to Steven L. Krongold for Being Named to Verdict Search’s 2011 Top California Verdicts!
Krongold Law Corporation 8105 Irvine Center Drive, Suite 900 Irvine, CA 92618 Tel: 949-651-1900 [email protected]
Secured $1,200,000 in Forsythe v. Zachariah Krongold Law Corporation is a full-service litigation boutique located in the heart of Orange County, California. The Firm was founded with one simple
mission: to provide individual attention to high-end clients who need aggressive legal representation
Congratulations to Steven L. Krongold for Being Named to Verdict Search’s 2011 Top California Verdicts!
Krongold Law Corporation 8105 Irvine Center Drive, Suite 900 Irvine, CA 92618 Tel: 949-651-1900 [email protected]
Secured $1,200,000 in Forsythe v. Zachariah Krongold Law Corporation is a full-service litigation boutique located in the heart of Orange County, California. The Firm was founded with one simple
mission: to provide individual attention to high-end clients who need aggressive legal representation
Congratulations to Steven L. Krongold for Being Named to Verdict Search’s 2011 Top California Verdicts!
Krongold Law Corporation 8105 Irvine Center Drive, Suite 900 Irvine, CA 92618 Tel: 949-651-1900 [email protected]
Secured $1,200,000 in Forsythe v. Zachariah Krongold Law Corporation is a full-service litigation boutique located in the heart of Orange County, California. The Firm was founded with one simple
mission: to provide individual attention to high-end clients who need aggressive legal representation
Secured $1,200,000 in Forsythe v. Zachariah
Krongold Law Corporation is a full-service litigation boutique located in the heart of Orange County, California.
The Firm was founded with one simple mission: to provide individual attention to high-end clients who need
aggressive legal representation.
57 California Coastal Commission v. Witter
1/27/2011 Los Angeles County
Environmental Law: State Laws
Defendant accused of having illegal trailer park on property
Christina Bull Arndt, Los Angeles, CA of Office of the Attorney General; Gordon Rawlins Overton, Los Angeles, CA of Office of the Attorney General; Wyatt E. Sloan-Tribe, Los Angeles, CA of Office of the Attorney General
$3,877,000
58 Winston v. Countrywide Financial Corp.
2/3/2011 Los Angeles County
Employment: Retaliation Termination was retaliation for reporting noxious fumes: suit
Deborah Hoetger, San Marino, CA of The Mathews Law Group; Charles T. Mathews, San Marino, CA of The Mathews Law Group
$3,828,166
59 Maseba v. Mosqueda 5/11/2011 Fresno County Motor Vehicle: Stop Sign Plaintiff alleged truck ran stop sign, caused collision
Warren R. Paboojian, Fresno, CA of Baradat & Paboojian LLP; Jason S. Bell, Fresno, CA of Baradat & Paboojian, LLP
$3,753,690
60 Glanzman v. Parkview Village, LLC
7/5/2011 Los Angeles County
Products Liability: Design Defect
Plaintiff claimed ladder’s design violated OSHA rules
Laura V. Farber, Pasadena, CA of Hahn & Hahn LLP; Ryan A. Kaye, Pasadena, CA of Hahn & Hahn LLP
$3,743,075
61 Pet Food Express Limited v. Royal Canin USA Inc.
9/1/2011 Federal Contracts: Breach of Contract
Defendant refused to honor contract, plaintiff alleged
John Douglas Moore, Oakland, CA of Henn, Etzel & Moore, Inc.
$3,649,124
62 Smith Kline Beecham v. Abbott Laboratories
3/30/2011 Federal Antitrust: Monopolies Drug maker accused of creating a monopoly
Brian Hennigan, Los Angeles, CA of Irell & Manella LLP; Alexander F. Wiles, Los Angeles, CA of Irell & Manella LLP
$3,500,000
63 Chaugle v. Valley Heart Associates Medical Group Inc.
9/22/2011 Stanislaus County
Intentional Torts: Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress
Doctor claimed retaliation for filing concerns about hospital
Charles T. Mathews, San Marino, CA of The Mathews Law Group; Jeffrey A. Rager, Torrance, CA of The Rager Law Firm
$3,458,331
64 Bonilla v. Bonilla 6/3/2011 Orange County Contracts: Breach of Settlement Agreement
Relatives breached agreement regarding businesses: plaintiff
Raymond E. Brown, Costa Mesa, CA of Bohm Matsen Kegel & Aguilera, LLP
$3,371,766
65 Carter v. Lampkin 6/6/2011 Los Angeles County
Motor Vehicle: Broadside Taxi passengers claimed injuries in broadside crash
Warren Chip Dean, Irvine, CA of Rigg & Dean; Shannon C. Lamb, Newport Beach, CA of Stephens Friedland LLP; Michael S. Sutton, Mission Viejo, CA of Sutton & Murphy
$3,341,744
66 Dang v. Hankerson 3/17/2011 Los Angeles County
Employment: Sexual Harassment
Woman alleged boss stalked, fired her after romance ended
Neil M. Sunkin, Woodland Hills, CA of Law Office of Neil M. Sunkin; Douglas L. Carden, Westlake Village, CA of Law Offices of Douglas L. Carden
$3,335,861
67 Williams v. Loker University Student Union
11/22/2011 Los Angeles County
Premises Liability: Dangerous Condition
Plaintiff claimed failure to attach steps to stage caused fall
Hector Marrache, Encino, CA of Abassian Marrache; Stephen Bernard, Los Angeles, CA of Bernard & Bernard; Alena Klimianok, Los Angeles, CA of Bernard & Bernard
$3,325,214
68 Ellis v. Harvey’s Lake Tahoe Hotel and Casino
5/23/2011 San Francisco County
Products Liability: Breach of Warranty
Casino beverage was caustic, damaged patron’s throat: suit
Christopher B. Dolan, San Francisco, CA of The Dolan Law Firm
$3,254,308
69 Watson v. County of Santa Clara
4/1/2011 Federal Civil Rights Children wrongfully removed from home, suit alleged
Peter J. Johnson, Walnut Creek, CA of Law Offices of Johnson & Johnson; Robert R. Powell, San Jose, CA of Law Offices of Robert R. Powell
$3,250,000
70 Thomas v. TapouT LLC 1/25/2011 Los Angeles County
Employment: Wages and Hours
Sales rep: Complaints about unpaid commissions led to firing
James Urbanic, Santa Monica, CA of Shegarian & Associates; Carney R. Shegerian, Santa Monica, CA of Shegerian & Associates
$3,240,434
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14 | WEEK OF APRIL 30, 2012 THE RECORDER | WWW.THERECORDER.COMTOP VERDICTS
The Veen Firm is honored to have two verdicts included in the Top California Verdicts of 2011. The firm’s lawyers pride themselves on creative lawyering, meticulous preparation, and exhaustive case workup to achieve superior results. We thank our referring attorneys who entrust their valued clients to us.
We congratulate Bill Veen and Kevin Lancaster for their $10,210,707 verdict in Corbo v. Taylor Dunn Manufacturing. Plaintiff Chris Corbo’s foot was crushed by a flatbed truck at an auto manufacturing plant. Bill and Kevin had already collected $8 million from settling joint tortfeasors and proceeded to trial on the product liability case.
We also congratulate Anthony Label and Andje Medina for their $1,070,891 verdict in Torres v. Fleming. Plaintiff Isaac Torres suffered a lumbar disc bulge when he slipped and fell down stairs at his rental apartment. The jury found no comparative fault even though Plaintiff had used the stairs approximately 50 times before his fall.
71 Herron v. Nederlander-Greek Inc.
3/7/2011 Los Angeles County
Premises Liability: Amusement Park/Place of Entertainment
Suit alleged there was no safe walkway at parking lot’s exit
Gregory J. Owen, Valencia, CA of Owen, Patterson & Owen; Susan A. Owen, Valencia, CA of Owen, Patterson & Owen
$3,236,455
72 Meenan v. Amoia 4/21/2011 San Diego County
Admiralty/Maritime: Boating Accidents
Tourists injured when sailboats collided in harbor
Brooks L. Iler, San Diego, CA of Iler & Iler, LLP $3,088,385
73 Stewart v. Enloe Medical Center
12/19/2011 Butte County Medical Malpractice: Surgical Error
Surgical error resulted in death, patient’s family alleged
William C. Callaham, Sacramento, CA of Wilcoxen Callaham, LLP; Michelle C. Jenni, Sacramento, CA of Wilcoxen Callaham, LLP
$3,016,389
74 Moss v. San Bernardino 12/6/2011 San Bernardino County
Employment: Wages and Hours
City’s forced salary reduction violated charter, claimed plaintiffs
Corey W. Glave, Hermosa Beach, CA of Corey M. Glave, Attorney at Law
$2,700,000
75 Rodriguez v. Acciani 5/25/2011 Los Angeles County
Intentional Torts: Conspiracy
Woman said ailing husband’s family conspired against her
Steven H. Haney, Los Angeles, CA of Haney, Roderick, Torbett & Arnold, L.L.P.
$2,500,000
76 Bakotich v. Los Angeles Police Department
9/30/2011 Los Angeles County
Employment: Gender Discrimination
Plaintiffs: Lieutenant tried to rid night shift of male workers
Gregory W. Smith, Beverly Hills, CA of Law Offices of Gregory W. Smith
$2,468,323
77 Mansir v. Air & Liquid Systems Corp.
7/20/2011 San Diego County
Products Liability: Asbestos
Former boiler tech alleged asbestos dust caused illness
Jonathan A. George, Dallas, TX of of counsel to Waters, Kraus & Paul, L.L.P.; David Bricker, El Segundo, CA of Waters, Kraus & Paul, L.L.P.; Peter Klausner, El Segundo, CA of Waters, Kraus & Paul, L.L.P.
$2,350,961
78 Perez v. Ameripride Services Inc.
5/23/2011 Los Angeles County
Motor Vehicle: Drug Use Decedent’s family: Van turned in front of passing motorcycle
Thomas W. Ely, Irvine, CA of Wesierski & Zurek; Ronald F. Templer, Irvine, CA of Wesierski & Zurek
$2,325,736
79 Tseng v. Mazzocco Ambulatory Surgical Center Inc.
6/16/2011 Los Angeles County
Medical Malpractice: Anesthesiology
Suit: Doc left sedated patient with improperly trained staff
Robert J. Mandell, Northridge, CA of The Mandell Law Firm $2,245,000
80 Fox v. Los Angeles Unified School District
6/30/2011 Los Angeles County
Construction: Falling Object
Table’s fall on foot resulted in partial amputation: plaintiff
Steven M. Neimand, Calabasas, CA of Law Offices of Steven M. Neimand
$2,239,720
81 Radford v. BAE Systems San Francisco Ship Repair Inc.
1/10/2011 San Francisco County
Employment: Wrongful Termination
Shipyard employee claimed race was a factor in his termination
Simona A. Farrise, Los Angeles, CA of Farrise Law Firm; Carla V. Minnard, Los Angeles, CA of Farrise Law Firm
$2,170,000
82 Meyers v. Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Co.
8/15/2011 San Joaquin County
Railroad: FELA Switchman blamed railroad for disabling slip on ballast
Kristoffer S. Mayfield, Oakland, CA of Hildebrand, McLeod & Nelson, L.L.P.; Victor A. Russo, Los Angeles, CA of Hildebrand, McLeod & Nelson, L.L.P.
$2,145,821
83 Sommer v. San Joaquin Valley Railroad Co.
3/15/2011 Kern County Motor Vehicle: Tractor-Trailer
Trucker injured in collision with railcar at crossing
Kristoffer S. Mayfield, Oakland, CA of Hildebrand, McLeod & Nelson LLP; Anthony S. Petru, Oakland, CA of Hildebrand, McLeod & Nelson LLP
$2,133,895
84 Morataya v. City of Bakersfield
5/20/2011 Kern County Worker/Workplace Negligence
Man died after park employee drove over him
David K. Cohn, Bakersfield, CA of Chain, Cohn & Stiles; Deborah Chang, Los Angeles, CA of Panish, Shea & Boyle, L.L.P.; Brian J. Panish, Los Angeles, CA of Panish, Shea & Boyle, L.L.P.
$2,123,262
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85 Lopez v. Hernandez 5/26/2011 Riverside County
Premises Liability: Dangerous Condition
Failure to repair gate caused daughter’s death, parents alleged
Krystale R. Rosal, West Covina, CA of Law Offices of Mauro Fiore, Jr.
$2,000,000
86 Alvarez v. SCS Engineers 9/1/2011 Los Angeles County
Motor Vehicle: Rear-ender
Plaintiff alleged rear-ender caused chronic back pain
Candice S. Klein, Beverly Hills, CA of Carpenter, Zuckerman & Rowley, L.L.P.; Nicholas C. Rowley, Beverly Hills, CA of Carpenter, Zuckerman & Rowley, L.L.P.; Jerry L. Webb, Woodland Hills, CA of Law Offices of Jerry L. Webb
$2,000,000
87 Shoolery Design Inc. v. Ignition Creative LLC
3/14/2011 Los Angeles County
Business Law: Intentional Interference with a Contract
Company accused competitor of luring away top employee
Michael N. Poli, Phoenix, AZ of Poli & Ball, P.L.C.; Jeffrey G. Zane, Phoenix, AZ of Poli & Ball, P.L.C.
$2,000,000
88 Brown v. Oberdorfer 6/29/2011 Orange County Motor Vehicle: Rear-ender
Suit: Driver on cellphone when she hit motorcycle
J. Derek Pakiz, Santa Ana, CA of The Reeves Law Group; Marc B. Thompson, Santa Ana, CA of The Reeves Law Group
$1,964,930
89 Ajdari v. Kainth 6/22/2011 Los Angeles County
Medical Malpractice: Negligent Treatment
Suit: Doctor failed to notice signs of pulmonary embolism
Todd J. Bloomfield, Woodland Hills, CA of Rice & Bloomfield
$1,962,670
90 Murphy v. State of California 10/20/2011 Shasta County Motor Vehicle: Rear-ender
Pltff. claimed shoulder injuries prevented him from training new employees
Russell P. Reiner, Redding, CA of Reiner, Simpson, Slaughter & Wood, L.L.P.
$1,890,000
91 Estate of Wacker v. Tavallodi 9/21/2011 San Diego County
Intentional Torts: Assault and Battery
Security guard fatally shot man during argument
Todd E. Macaluso, Carlsbad, CA of Macaluso and Associates; Christopher M. Ridgeway, Carlsbad, CA of Macaluso and Associates; Scott White, Carlsbad, CA of Macaluso and Associates
$1,870,100
92 Biolley v. Select-a-Service LLC
9/29/2011 Los Angeles County
Worker/Workplace Negligence
Marketing rep injured when heavy shelf fell on her
Stephen McElroy, Beverly Hills, CA of AlderLaw, P.C. $1,829,045
93 Rose v. Bolin 9/16/2011 Los Angeles County
Elder Law: California Elder Abuse Act
Defendants attempted to defraud elderly man: plaintiffs
Geoffrey M. Gold, Los Angeles, CA of Rutter, Hobbs & Davidoff
$1,800,000
94 Gustave v. Colmenares 1/10/2011 Orange County Motor Vehicle: Rear-ender
Rear-ender caused neck injuries, plaintiff claimed
Christopher E. Purcell, Santa Ana, CA of Purcell Law $1,725,000
95 Steffan v. Steffan 9/27/2011 San Diego County
Intentional Torts: Assault and Battery
Former husband and stepfather accused of abusing family
Kenneth H. Stone, San Diego, CA of Law Offices of Kenneth H. Stone
$1,725,000
96 Marshall v. YRC Inc. 3/29/2011 San Diego County
Slips, Trips & Falls: Fall from Height
Worker fell, injured pelvis while helping unload truck
R. Christian Hulburt, San Diego, CA of Hulburt & Bunn, LLP; Bryan R. Snyder, San Diego, CA of Law Office of Bryan R. Snyder
$1,703,557
97 Chaudhry v. City of Los Angeles
1/26/2011 Federal Civil Rights: Police as Defendant
Autistic man fatally shot by LAPD officer
Ameena M. Qazi, Anaheim, CA of Council on American-Islamic Relations; Sri Panchalam, Los Angeles, CA of Disability Rights Legal Center; Paula Pearlman, Los Angeles, CA of Disability Rights Legal Center; Matthew Strugar, Los Angeles, CA of Disability Rights Legal Center
$1,700,000
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HILDEBRAND McLEOD & NELSON INC.Representing Victims of Railroad Negligence Since 1926
Anthony S. Petru Victor A. Russo Kristo�er S. May�eld
OAKLAND: 350 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, 4th Floor, Oakland, CA 94612
VERDICTS
SOUTHERN CA: 700 N. Brand, Suite 860, Glendale, CA 91206 (800) 447-7500www.hmnlaw.com
WIPFF v. BNSF: $2,718,653.00 (1/2012)SMESRUD v. UPRR: $1,396,841.00 (11/2011)MEYERS v. BNSF: $1,180,201.55 (8/2011)COOK v. UPRR: $2,323,000.00 (5/2011)MARTIN v. BNSF: $4,931,549.00 (2/2011)JENSEN v. BNSF: $1,740,617.00 (11/2010 )McMACKIN v. UPRR: $1,795,227.00 (10/2010)SOMMER v. SJVR: $2,133,000.00 (3/2010)CONLEY v. UPRR: $1,284,512.00 (10/2009)WEAVER v. BNSF: $1,437,848.00 (5/2009)LACY v. BNSF: $1,080,000.00 (5/2008)
WE ACCEPT AND WELCOME YOUR RAILROADRELATED AND OTHER P.I. REFERRAL CASES.WE ARE TRIAL LAWYERS. WE GET RESULTS.
Hildebrand, McLeod & Nelson, Inc. is among the most respected and capable trial �rms in the Western United States dedicated to the representation of plainti�s at trial in personal injury cases. We have recently tried cases to verdicts in state and federal courts in California, Nevada, Arizona, Oregon, and Texas. Our practice focuses on the FELA and railroad related injuries, but we also handle all types of serious personal injury cases. We also recently recovered $27 million on behalf of our clients injured in the Chastsworth Metrolink Disaster. We are proud to say that we are trial lawyers.
98 Hughes v. State of California Department of Corrections & Rehab
7/8/2011 Los Angeles County
Employment: Retaliation Plaintiff: Speaking about inmate segregation resulted in firing
Steven J. Horvath, Pasadena, CA of Law Offices of Steven J. Horvath
$1,670,000
99 Estate of Lagiss v. Moreland 4/7/2011 Alameda County
Professional Negligence: Breach of Fiduciary Duty
Plaintiff claimed account’s trustee misused funds
Kimberly A. Fanady, San Francisco, CA of Law Offices of Kimberly A. Fanady
$1,594,606
100 Shank v. CRST Van Expedited Inc.
5/4/2011 San Bernardino County
Employment: Hostile Work Environment
Trucker alleged she was sexually harassed on the job
Karine Bohbot, Oakland, CA of Bohbot & Riles, LLP; Elizabeth Riles, Oakland, CA of Bohbot & Riles, LLP
$1,568,725
101 Fore v. State of California 4/29/2011 Contra Costa County
Workplace: Construction Site
Late-night crash occurred due to absence of cones, signs: pltf
Peter W. Alfert, Walnut Creek, CA of Law Offices of Hinton Alfert Sumner & Kaufmann
$1,554,000
102 Arakelian v. Pacific Bell Telephone Co.
10/28/2011 Alameda County
Motor Vehicle: Motorcycle
Motorcycle crash resulted in spinal injuries, couple alleged
Daniel R. Baradat, Fresno, CA of Baradat & Paboojian, Inc.; Christopher C. Watters, Fresno, CA of Miles, Sears & Eanni
$1,540,449
103 Mayorga v. Biagi Bros Inc. 11/16/2011 Napa County Workplace Safety: Forklift
Plaintiff’s hand was crushed in clamp on forklift attachment
Daniel Slijepcevich, San Rafael, CA of Kuvara Law Firm $1,483,895
104 Hedren v. Allen 9/9/2011 San Diego County
Legal Profession: Malpractice
Failure of prior attorney caused dismissal of injury claim: plaintiff
Bruce A. Broillet, Santa Monica, CA of Greene Broillet & Wheeler, LLP; Taylor Rayfield, Santa Monica, CA of Greene Broillet & Wheeler, LLP; Alan Van Gelder, Santa Monica, CA of Greene Broillet & Wheeler, LLP
$1,483,708
105 Rashidi v. Moser 9/2/2011 Los Angeles County
Medical Malpractice: Negligent Injection
Procedure to stop nose bleed left patient blind in one eye
Daniel K. Balaban, Los Angeles, CA of Balaban and Spielberger LLP
$1,450,000
106 Yin v. Pira 7/7/2011 San Francisco County
Intentional Torts: Battery Teen alleged defendant conspired to have him killed
John Fitzpatrick Vannucci, San Francisco, CA of Law Office of John Fitzpatrick Vannucci
$1,432,190
107 Schuman v. Lopez 3/18/2011 Riverside County
Medical Malpractice: Failure to Monitor
Suit: Patient was never told of diagnosis or management
Andre Rekte, San Bernardino, CA of Girardi & Keese; John C. Mulvana, San Clemente, CA of Law Offices of John C. Mulvana
$1,414,160
108 CBC Framing Inc. v. National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, PA
6/1/2011 Los Angeles County
Contracts: Breach of Contract
Contractor: Insurer mishandled workers’ comp claims
Mark T. Palin, Cerritos, CA of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo; Michael J. Rubino, Cerritos, CA of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
$1,402,175
109 Smesrud v. Union Pacific Railroad Co.
10/24/2011 Contra Costa County
Railroad: FELA Conductor: Protruding rebar near tracks caused injuries
Ryan J. Otis, Oakland, CA of Hildebrand McLeod & Nelson LLP; Anthony S. Petru, Oakland, CA of Hildebrand McLeod & Nelson LLP
$1,396,841
110 Adams v. Costco Wholesale Membership
11/16/2011 San Luis Obispo County
Premises Liability: Dangerous Condition
Plaintiff claimed store employee ran over him with cart
Mariana Aroditis, Los Angeles, CA of Girardi & Keese; David N. Bigelow, Los Angeles, CA of Girardi & Keese
$1,389,717
111 McGinnis v. Babikian 5/9/2011 Sacramento County
Motor Vehicle: Rear-ender
Truck driver said he lost his job due to injuries from crash
Thomas J. McDonnell, Auburn, CA of Law Offices of Thomas McDonnell
$1,384,471
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112 Lenney v. Armstrong International Inc.
3/3/2011 San Francisco County
Products Liability: Asbestos
Asbestos in cigarette filters caused cancer, plaintiff alleged
William A. Levin, San Francisco, CA of Levin, Simes, Kaiser & Gornick, L.L.P.; Timothy F. Pearce, San Francisco, CA of Levin, Simes, Kaiser & Gornick, L.L.P.; Laurel L. Simes, San Francisco, CA of Levin, Simes, Kaiser & Gornick, L.L.P.
$1,369,680
113 Velasquez v. County of Ventura
10/27/2011 Santa Barbara County
Employment: Retaliation Investigator claimed he was denied position after testimony
Mark R. Pachowicz, Camarillo, CA of Law Offices of Mark Pachowicz; Lanny M. Tron, Camarillo, CA of Law Offices of Mark Pachowicz; Maury Mills, Ventura, CA of Law Offices of Maury Mills
$1,356,000
114 Thomas v. Stewart 6/2/2011 Orange County Premises Liability: Negligent Repair and/or Maintenance
Defective roof hatch caused fall from ladder, plaintiff alleged
Frank P. Barbaro, Santa Ana, CA of Frank P. Barbaro & Associates; Sherri L. Honer, Santa Ana, CA of Frank P. Barbaro & Associates
$1,297,875
115 Mitri v. Walgreen Co. 8/19/2011 Federal Employment: Wrongful Termination
Pharmacist said he was fired after reporting alleged fraud
Peter S. Bradley, Fresno, CA of Penner & Bradley; Andrew B. Jones, Fresno, CA of Wagner & Jones, L.L.P.; Nicholas Butch Wagner, Fresno, CA of Wagner & Jones, L.L.P.
$1,240,000
116 Dempsey v. Oliver 10/27/2011 Sonoma County Motor Vehicle: Multiple Vehicle
Police vehicle’s excessive speed caused crash: plaintiff
Brendan M. Kunkle, Santa Rosa, CA of Abbey, Weitzenberg, Warren & Emery
$1,234,952
117 Applied Utility Systems Inc. v. Benz Air Engineering Co. Inc.
8/1/2011 Orange County Contracts: Breach of Contract
Plaintiff: Company failed to pay for systems, committed slander
Timothy L. Pierce, Los Angeles, CA of K&L Gates LLP $1,227,051
118 Cervantes v. Molina 5/12/2011 San Diego County
Contracts: Breach of Contract
Defendant breached sale of dental practice, plaintiff claimed
Evan A. Kalooky, La Mesa, CA of The McMillan Law Firm; Scott A. McMillan, La Mesa, CA of The McMillan Law Firm
$1,225,200
119 Forsythe v. Zachariah 11/10/2011 Orange County Medical Malpractice: Psychiatrist
Man claimed psychiatrist failed to fax note to his employer
Steven L. Krongold, Irvine, CA of Krongold Law Corporation, P.C.
$1,200,000
120 Cummings v. Capistrano Terrace Ltd.
3/1/2011 Orange County Landlord and Tenant Landlord failed to maintain trailer park, plaintiffs claimed
David J. Semelsberger, San Diego, CA of Endeman, Lincoln, Turek & Heater; Kenneth C. Turek, San Diego, CA of Endeman, Lincoln, Turek & Heater
$1,141,584
121 Hanley v. RA Sushi Torrance 6/30/2011 Los Angeles County
Hotel/Restaurant: Dram Shop
Restaurant served booze to minor, crash victim’s widower alleged
Noah R. Balch, Los Angeles, CA of Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP; Steve Cochran, Los Angeles, CA of Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP
$1,106,998
122 Falcon Stainless Inc. v. Rino Cos. Inc.
2/25/2011 Federal Intellectual Property: Trademarks
Company said its product was copied by former employees
Graham B. LippSmith, Los Angeles, CA of Girardi & Keese; Milord A. Keshishian, Los Angeles, CA of Milord & Associates, P.C.
$1,100,000
123 Jong v. Tawa Supermarket Inc.
7/25/2011 Alameda County
Premises Liability: Slip and Fall
Patron claimed supermarket’s floor was excessively slippery
Joseph E. Tomasik, Berkeley, CA of Law Offices of Joseph E. Tomasik; Annie Tomasik Sahhar, Berkeley, CA of Law Offices of Joseph E. Tomasik
$1,077,063
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In Tran v. U.S. Mineral Products Co., a U.S. District Court jury awarded the manager of a manufacturing plant more than $5.4 million on a claim that he was fired for complaining that his secretary was sexually harassed by the company’s chief executive.
Victor L. George won the 2005 Trial Attorney of the Year award for the Consumer Attorneys of Los Angeles (CAALA), and has been nominated for that honor for eight of the past 10 years (2002 through 2007 and 2010, 2011) for Trial Attorney of the Year. He was twice nominated (2006 and 2011) as a National Trial Attorney of the Year for the Trial Lawyers for Public Justice (TLPJ), For the fifth time, he is again on the "Top 100" Southern California Super Lawyers list for 2012, and has been a Super Lawyer every year since its inception.
Mr. George is a trial lawyer with over $100 million in jury verdicts and settlements with many multimillion-dollar verdicts in both catastrophic personal injury and employment discrimination cases. His many jury verdicts against numerous large corporations
Congratulations to Victor L. George Esq. for Being Named to Verdict Search’s 2011 Top California Verdicts
The Law Offices of Victor George 20355 Hawthorne Boulevard, 1st Floor
Torrance, CA 90503 (310) 698-0990
2600 Michelson Dr., Ste. 1700 Irvine, CA 92612 (949) 852-3595
www.vgeorgelaw.com
include: Wal-Mart, Ford Motor Company, California Youth Authority, the Los Angeles Roman Catholic Archdiocese, Brownco Construction, Columbia Medical Hospitals, U.S. Mineral Company, Sears Roebuck, Taverna Tony, Metrolink and Kindred Healthcare.
The five attorney law offices of Victor L. George, have established their reputation as a premier plaintiffs trial law firm. Their substantial financial resources enable them to accumulate all necessary evidence and expertise to obtain the best trial result possible for each of their clients. Victor L. George and the trial team he leads limit their practice to two important areas of the law – Employment Discrimination and Catastrophic Personal Injury.
124 Torres v. Fleming 10/28/2011 Marin County Premises Liability: Slip and Fall
Algae left on stairs and lack of handrail caused fall: plaintiff
Anthony L. Label, San Francisco, CA of The Veen Firm, P.C.; Andje Morovich Medina, San Francisco, CA of The Veen Firm, P.C.
$1,070,801
125 Caughran v. Seymour 7/19/2011 Los Angeles County
Motor Vehicle: Alcohol Involvement-Defendant
Plaintiffs claimed injuries from collision with drunken driver
C. Michael Alder, Beverly Hills, CA of AlderLaw, P.C.; Diane M. Corwin, San Marino, CA of Law Offices of Diane M. Corwin
$1,031,000
126 Cederwall v. Jay Morton Real Estate
4/6/2011 San Francisco County
Professional Negligence: Breach of Fiduciary Duty
Realtor misrepresented condition of condo, suit alleged
Keith D. Yandell, San Francisco, CA of Allen Matkins Leck Gamble Mallory & Natsis, L.L.P.; John S. Siamas, San Francisco, CA of Reed Smith, L.L.P.
$1,029,525
127 Varner v. Hunt 9/7/2011 Los Angeles County
Medical Malpractice: Negligent Treatment
Patient’s deltoid muscle detached from bone post-op
Jeffrey J. Greenman, Beverly Hills, CA of Greenmanlaw PC $1,017,500
128 Roe v. Los Angeles Unified School District
7/25/2011 Los Angeles County
School: Negligent Supervision
Suit: School used 12-year-old student in drug sting
Alexander G. Calfo, Los Angeles, CA of Yukevich, Calfo & Cavanaugh; Delmar S. Thomas, Los Angeles, CA of Yukevich, Calfo & Cavanaugh
$1,015,250
129 Thompson v. Forni 5/31/2011 Alameda County
Admiralty/Maritime: Boating Accidents
Crew member claimed negligent operation of boats
Peter J. Koenig, San Francisco, CA of Walker, Hamilton & Koenig, LLP
$1,011,789
130 Charles v. Mountain View Mobile Home Estates
12/8/2011 San Bernardino County
Non-Motor Vehicle: Bicycle
Child fell 16 feet while riding bicycle in mobile home park
Andrew Lind, Beverly Hills, CA of Carpenter, Zuckerman & Rowley, LLP; Nicholas C. Rowley, Beverly Hills, CA of Carpenter, Zuckerman & Rowley, LLP; Kenneth C. Turek, San Diego, CA of Endeman, Lincoln, Turek & Heater LLP; Gary D. Baughman, Redlands, CA of Law Office of Gary D. Baughman
$1,000,000
131 Integon Preferred Insurance Co. v. Isztojka
4/27/2011 Federal Motor Vehicle: SUV Parties dispute vehicle’s insurance coverage
Christine M. Doyle, Sacramento, CA of Clayeo C. Arnold, PLC; Kirk J. Wolden, Sacramento, CA of Clayeo C. Arnold, PLC
$1,000,000
132 Pio v. Lane 2/4/2011 Los Angeles County
Motor Vehicle: Motorcycle
Police officer: Motorcycle crash caused wrist, nose injuries
Todd F. Nevell, Pasadena, CA of Scolinos, Sheldon & Nevell; Daniel G. Sheldon, Pasadena, CA of Scolinos, Sheldon & Nevell
$1,000,000
RANK CASE DATE COURT TYPE OF ACTION HEADLINES ATTORNEYS AWARD
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