Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
International Paper Co. v. Kennedy Specialty Lumber (E.D. Marshall Tex). Representation of International Paper in a complex commercial fraud and conspiracy jury trial after principal defendant was acquitted. Defendants counter claimed and demanded $140 million shortly before trial. More than 20,000 exhibits were introduced during the trial. The jury returned a $1 million verdict (the exact amount requested in closing) in favor of International Paper and rejected defendants’ counter claim.
Thomas v. Atlantic Richfield, DuPont (Milwaukee, Wis. Circuit Court) – Representation of DuPont in a five-week jury trial in which the plaintiff and his guardian ad litem alleged that the plaintiff suffered permanent brain damage as a result of childhood lead poisoning. The case was the first in the country to go to trial under a recently created "risk contribution" theory of liability. The trial received national attention and was closely followed by the plaintiff and defense bars. The jury returned a complete defense verdict.
Alsobrook vs. UPS Ground Freight (USDC Memphis, Tenn.). Representation of UPS in a four-plaintiff hostile environment, race and retaliation jury trial brought under Title VII and Section 1981. Plaintiffs alleged a hostile environment, including a noose, two death threats, a gun, various instances of patently offensive graffiti and racial epithets by coworkers and supervisors. Plaintiffs sought damages in excess of $10 million. After a two-week trial the jury returned a complete defense verdict.
Willie Homer Stephens, Guardian Ad Litem for Lillian Colvin, v. CSX Transportation (Hampton County Circuit Court, S.C.). Representation of CSX in this three week jury trial. The plaintiff alleged that CSX's negligence in operating one of its trains and in failing to clear vegetation at a crossing in Hampton County, S.C. resulted in an accident that caused brain damage to a minor. During closing arguments plaintiff's counsel requested actual and punitive damages in excess of $40,000,000.00. The 12-person jury returned a unanimous defense verdict in favor of CSX.
Musburger Ltd. V. Meier (Cook County Circuit Court.). Retained approximately 45 days before trial to represent a prominent entertainment lawyer in a commercial jury trial with a Chicago radio personality. Defendant brought a $15 million counterclaim against our client for malpractice and breach of fiduciary duty. The jury returned a verdict in favor of our client.
Hicks v. International Paper Company (E.D. Tex). Retained by International Paper Company approximately 60 days before a jury trial to represent it in an environmental tort case under the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) and the Clean Water Act. Case settled favorably after jury selection.
Nevamar v. Charleswater (D. Md.). Representation of Nevamar, in this patent infringement case. Client asked Mr. Harmon to try the case approximately 100 days before trial. Plaintiff calculated damages of approximately $100 million. Case settled favorably shortly before trial.