The Facts

This matter involved a single family home wherein plaintiff claimed a litany of construction defects including drainage issues resulting in a flood, waterproofing problems, siding and window issues and various other issues. Plaintiff’s counsel requested the jury issue an award of $604,000.

Ms. Lawrence countered by pointing out that most of the defects were caused by the plaintiffs or the plaintiff’s design professionals.

Settlement Discussions

Plaintiff’s lowest demand was $500,000. Cynthia had offered as much as $300,000 with an indication that there might be a little more. A CCP § 998 was issued jointly with the only subcontractor in the case for a total of $200,000.

Prior to Trial, Ms. Lawrence had settled out a couple of parties for $159,999.

The Verdict

In July after 6 weeks of trial, the Jury* returned an award of $139,666.

This is $20,333 less than money in the bank from prior settlements obtained prior to trial from the parties whom were actually responsible for the awarded damages.

While litigation is expensive, as the client in this matter mentioned, we made money on this case!

This a tremendous win and a great result. Good Job Cynthia!