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Category: Case Results

A Long-Awaited Bench Trial Success

Rissman attorneys Laura Simon and Anna Pardun recently obtained a favorable verdict following a one-day bench trial in Pasco County.

Rissman was asked to enter an appearance in an unusual case where the defendant was in default for over 10 years. Due to the default being entered, the defense was not allowed to contest negligence or causation of the injury, making this essentially a damages-only trial. Further, we were not permitted to introduce evidence of comparative negligence or to assert a seatbelt defense. Accordingly, the Court ruled in favor of the plaintiff as a matter of law on the issue of permanency, thus entitling the plaintiff to recovery of non-economic damages.

During closing arguments, and based on the facts above where negligence, causation, and permanency were all already determined as a matter of law, the plaintiff asked the Court to award nearly $300,000 in damages. After argument from the defense, the Court ultimately awarded the plaintiff less than half of what he had requested.

 


Our Rissman Victories Series showcases some of the most relevant and timely examples of our expertise and highly practiced approach. We consider the interests of our clients as paramount, and take pride in delivering consistent and meaningful results time and again.

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